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YNK

4.4 (189 reviews)
Open • 5:30 pm - 12:00 am (Next day)

By appointment only

YNK Photos

YNK ATMOSPHERE

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Intimate
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Recommended Reviews - YNK

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Matcha whiskey
Katrina V.

This speakeasy is located inside the airport Marriott hotel. I made reservations for 2 people at open table for a 6:30pm reservation on a Thursday night. It was practically empty except for 1 person inside watching the football game. The service went downhill after more guest came in later as it was only one server making the drinks and serving. It's basically one big room with couches. The drinks were tasty but felt overpriced as nothing wowed or surprised me. We shared a truffle mushroom flatbread which seemed more like a square pizza. Honestly i preferred sitting at the bar area of the hotel which was just outside as it doesn't get as loud and easier to talk to people

Mariness D.

Great place we ended up going to after dinner on a whim, as the bar we originally planned for was closed. Glad we found this place because I loved the vibe. It's a cute and cozy speakeasy with a different theme with decor and drinks weekly. When we went it was a New York theme. All of us enjoyed our drinks that Ben made. He also created a matcha drink for a friend of mine. The place has cozy sofas and a few bar tops. Don't forget to get your parking ticket validated - free for the first 3 hours with validation. The only thing I wish was different about this place is that they stayed open later.

Jeong P.

This small themed bar located in the back of Irvine Marriott mixes some cleverly unique cocktails with a cozy vibe. We stopped by on a Friday night and enjoyed some surprisingly stiff drinks accompanied by a DJ playing some nice tunes. The space is quite small and there is only one bartender, but this turned out to be a perfect little spot to grab a drink after having dinner nearby.

Kshama P.

It's a really cute speakeasy that I'd like to gate keep, but given how people flock to extravagant overpriced businesses in LA that deliver next to nothing, I think it works in everyone's favor if I don't. They are located inside Marriot, parking in their lot is comped/validated with dine in. They change their menu seasonally and their themes regions. We went during their south/spring season. Here's the menu. We tried the hanami (tea cocktail, 3/5 the earl gray overpowers), Tequila Ramos Fizz (3/5 can't taste the spice notes), Wanderlust (5/5, permanent menu item), Southside Hospitality (5/5, green chartreuse!). I think these are partly batched and partly done fresh but don't let that dissuade you, because what a stupid reason to not try something fabulous! For our anniversary they gave us a chocolate martini but I'm lactose intolerant so they switched it to paper plane riff off which was better than everything else we got (again, it's a compliment!). Service is fabulous!

Nicole E.

YNK is a speakeasy in the Irvine Marriott. If you walk into the hotel and walk to the right side of the bar you will see a sign for YNK. It stands for "you never know" and thought it was pretty clever! Recommend reservations on OpenTable as the space is small and it is timed seating of 1.5 hours. We had reservations at 10pm and was greeted cheerfully by Ben. He explained the concept of YNK and how they change the menu every few months to base it on a region. They are currently on the southwest so the curated menu is themed Dixieland. All cocktails have a southern taste and are a presentation. Cocktails are about $23 and up but absolutely delicious! They also have a solid food menu but since our reservation was on the later end we just came for drinks. As it is a speakeasy they don't have a lot of hands so be patient if all the tables are taken with ordering. It was only Ben and another bartender Sean. However, they both provided exemplary service and had really great conversation with us. They both are extremely creative and curated the Dixieland menu themselves. I give them kudos as all the drinks were fantastic! This was a pleasant gem in Irvine and will definitely be back. I chuckled as Ben closed out our tab he said you went from "you never know" to "you now know"! Clever YNK until next time.

Pig
Michelle G.

Waiting this for it is - a hotel bar and restaurant. The place is fine. Wait staff are fairly attentive and the prices run high. The salads looked wonderful my pork belly bao buns were decent. The drinks are strong. There is limited outside seating with fire pits that is overlooking the pool. Parking is expensive in the controlled lot.

Valerie G.

Great service! Couldn't be more satisfied. Drinks were tasty and strong- just how I like it. Great lounge area where you can just have a conversation with your friends. I'd love to come back

Midnight Oil (middle)
Jenny H.

I've been here many times now, as they update their interior decor and drink menu every couple months or so to reflect a new theme, and it happens to be in my area! In the past it's been a tiki bar, ski resort themed, and now, new york themed. It's refreshing to come back to every now and then and have a totally new menu to choose from! It's perfect for a date night or gathering with 1-2 friends, but I find that the space is a bit small and can be sometimes difficult to get a spot (if the hotel happens to have a lot of guests or an event going on)

Yurie H.

Intimate bar with great ambiance and awesome service. We had a reservation here for 07:30 PM on a Saturday highly recommended since if only seats 15 ish people. Parking is either valet or self parking (self is validated 3 hour max). The bar is located in Marriott hotel, small space but it was decked out with Christmas decorations when we went. Benjamin is a master, all the cocktails he made were amazing. My favorites were the KAMP AI and double smoked old fashion. The cocktails are $20 plus but they are worth it since they are strong and are very refined. Would love to try the other cocktails and food my next visit!

Cherlene H.

The atmosphere, drinks, and service is phenomenal here. This has to be one of my favorite speakeasy's I have ever been to. Benjamin and his manager work hard to change up the drink menu every few months. Drinks are well balanced, strong, and very unique. Parking can be validated. Benjamin does a great job reminding us about validating when we leave a little tipsy. I definitely recommend this bar 100/10.

Inside
Brian F.

YNK is a small speakeasy inside the Irvine Marriott next to the hotel lobby bar. They focus on 1920s Prohibition drinks but add a modern twist. For parking, you can do valet or self-parking with three hours of free parking with validation. We ordered the whiskey sour ($18) and the disparo squad ($19). I was interested in the whiskey sour because it had overproof rum in it but it didn't taste too different from a normal one. The disparo squad had a spicy kick and was decent. It was a slow night but the service was not very good. Even when there were only four people inside (including the two of us) it took a while to get our bartender's attention. Also, even for a small menu multiple drinks and ingredients were not in stock. The interior was pretty cool but the drinks and the service were okay.

Patricia C.

Having moved here from NYC, I knew it was going to be pretty hard to find something comparable in OC but I thought I'd give it a try. Unfortunately YNK did not meet the mark... It's really just a walled off room within the lobby of the Marriott hotel, and how you get in is just a set of sliding doors. When you walk in, initially it looks OK but once you take a closer look at the decor, it just looks like a cheesy version of what could be a cool 1920s prohibition vibe place. Seating wise, there are a couple of couch areas and also some high tops. It was pretty filled the day we went, but they somehow only had 1 person working there. He was obviously very overwhelmed so service was pretty slow. Now let's talk drinks. I wanted to order the Wanderlust $16 but they said they were sold out. I tried the Pocket Sage $18 and it was OK, nothing too special (I couldn't taste the chamomile or honey in there). Airbuzz $18 was the most bizarre drink with the buzz button foam on top...didn't look pretty and didn't taste that great either :( I ended the night with Smoke and Mirrors $18, this was probably my favorite out of the drinks we had. And the search continues...!

Deron R.

YNK is a speakeasy located with in the Irvine Marriott hotel. If you don't know it's there, you would probably miss it. Definitely get a reservation because it's pretty small and they don't take a lot of people in there. It's got a cool vibe. The bartenders are very talented and they will make you some really fancy libations. It's definitely worth a try if you're staying at the hotel or stopping through. But again, make sure you get a reservation or you probably will get a seed. Good stuff and good drinks for sure!

Smoke & Mirrors (left), Last Samurai (right)

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8 years ago

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9 years ago

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9 years ago

Ravin is a good bartender who makes people happy.

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9 years ago

I love this place. Always great service and a great vibe. Drinks are creative and atmosphere is fun.

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8 years ago

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9 years ago

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10 years ago

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9 years ago

Top notch boutique cocktails. Seems like mostly guests but folk should come from the outside world. Something to behold. Delicious!

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9 years ago

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7 years ago

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9 years ago

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9 years ago

Hands down the best old fashioned I've ever had. Ezra is awesome along with his team.

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9 years ago

Great service, I enjoyed the atmosphere. They like to make it feel like you are part of a certain culture.

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7 years ago

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9 years ago

Very cool pop-up bar with an eclectic, cozy feel. The drinks were superbly mixed and there was an excellent selection. Highly recommend!

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7 years ago

I went to check it out this week it's under renovation :/ will update this when I can actually rate it

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8 years ago

Great intimate little room, a hidden gem. Laid back, not loud or a party scene. Perfect for a date night. Delicious libations.

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7 years ago

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9 years ago

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7 years ago

Great place for a night out on a Friday ! Very chill vibes ! Love coming to this sport with my hubby

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8 years ago

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8 years ago

Service is great!! What more can you ask for?! Needed a nice evening out & happy I came across this place.

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8 years ago

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8 years ago

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9 years ago

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9 years ago

Amazingly tasty craft beverages. Enjoyed my old fashioned immensely. Smoky vibe with my fave missed libation.

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10 years ago

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10 years ago

Wow. Best cocktails I've ever had. Let Ravin take the lead and make you your new favorite cocktail

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Page 5 of 5

Ask the Community - YNK

Is this place open during Covid?

Is there food served here?

Not when I visited. A lot of the drinks looked the same too. Tasty, but not as original as touted.

Is there a dress code?

Nope

Can you make a reservation? or walk in only?

Is this place casual?

It’s a tiny room in a hotel lounge. Fairly casual but most are dressed to impress.

View All 8 Questions

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Cozy Pine feels like a hidden gem I almost don't want to share. But after the evening we had, I…read morecan't help but spill every delicious detail. The moment you walk in, you're wrapped in warm, cozy pine--wood-paneled walls, soft amber lighting, and that unmistakable speakeasy charm. Its very small and cozy, resembling a night out camping. And then there's Angelina. From the moment we sat down, she made the experience absolutely unforgettable. She knew the menu inside and out, recommended a smoked old-fashioned that came with a toasted marshmallow. You can tell she genuinely loves what she does--and it shows. She's the secret ingredient that turns a good night into a great one!

Okay this is officially the only kind of camping I'm willing to do…read more Tucked inside Bacchus Wine Bar is the cutest little camping-themed speakeasy, and it completely exceeded expectations. From the moment you walk in, it's giving cozy campsite vibes but elevated -- like if camping had good lighting, great cocktails, and zero bugs. We had such a fun night here. The ambiance alone makes it feel like a whole experience, not just drinks. We tried a few of their specialty cocktails, all super well done, but the real highlight was our server John. He was amazing -- attentive, fun, and clearly knows his drinks. At one point he made us an off-menu cocktail that was STRONG (in the best way) and honestly one of my favorites of the night. And the attention to detail?? He even let me borrow his hat for photos so I could fully commit to the camping aesthetic 10/10 for the vibes. Overall: such a cute, unique spot for a night out. Perfect for something a little different, a little playful, and definitely memorable. Would absolutely come back -- as long as it's this kind of camping.

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Cozy Pine - Inside speakeasy

Inside speakeasy

Cozy Pine - Speakeasy interior

Speakeasy interior

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Benny and Mary's - Caesar Salad that we chose as a side for the Black Sheep Smashburger. Refreshing with Parmesan and Caesar dressing.

Benny and Mary's

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1. The burger was delicious and well-built! I love the flavors of the pie!…read more2. The spot has fun vibes! The interior is nicely decorated! 3. The staff was friendly and hospitable! The food came out after 10 mins! 4. There are indoor and outdoor seatings! Lots of table! 5. There are parking structures and lots! Restaurant should be able to validate! Note: Restrooms have multiple stalls! Photo: Banana Cookie Butter Pie and Classic Smash

Came to Benny and Mary's for a birthday dinner and had an enjoyable meal. Our waiter was super…read moreattentive and genuinely entertaining -- even offered to sing happy birthday solo, which was such a fun and memorable. The ambiance is a bit quirky and moody, great setting for a special occasion. Interesting menu with lots of variety. We ordered the grilled cheese dumplings, yellowfin tuna poke, parmesan garlic fries, ribeye, and chilean sea bass. Two clear favorites: the grilled cheese dumplings are such a creative concept -- if you love tomato soup and grilled cheese, it's basically the perfect bite in dumpling form. And the chilean sea bass was really the star of the night -- beautifully seared so it's crispy on the outside but soft, juicy, and tender inside, and the couscous paired with it really well. The one thing I'd skip is the ribeye -- the texture and flavor just didn't deliver the way the other dishes did, especially at that price point.

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Benny and Mary's - Secret entrance to private room

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Benny and Mary's - Cheese Dumplings. Crispy wonton shells give way to its melted cheese center as it sits partially submerged in a thick, spicy tomato bisque.

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Benny and Mary's - Bananas Foster. Boozy flambéed bananas, vanilla gelato, and chocolate banana bread. Great dessert to try out.

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Bananas Foster. Boozy flambéed bananas, vanilla gelato, and chocolate banana bread. Great dessert to try out.

P10NEER

P10NEER

4.6(198 reviews)
2.7 mi
Takes reservations
Romantic vibe

My partner and I came here after dinner on Valentine's Day, and I absolutely loved this little…read morespot. She had told me about it before and really wanted to take me, so I was excited to finally check it out. It's a very small place, so I'd definitely recommend making a reservation online. That worked perfectly for us we were able to get in right away without any wait. Even though it's cozy, it doesn't feel cramped at all. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the drinks were wonderful. The staff really stood out to me. They were attentive, kind, and professional throughout the night. At one point, a patron started to get a bit too tipsy, and the staff handled it with such care and respect while making sure everyone else didn't feel awkward in the situation. It was clear they genuinely care about their guests' experience. Overall, such a great spot and we will definitely come back.

Tried the speakeasy cocktail lounge inside Dick's Church because we saw it on Resy and honestly, it…read morewas a huge disappointment. The atmosphere could have been cool, but every 5 minutes the bright hallway light blasted through the western-style swinging door and completely ruined the dark speakeasy vibe. The drinks were tiny and overpriced. We ordered two Old Fashioneds and the giant ice cubes took up almost the entire glass. Larger than a normal square ice cube- a little taller. But it seriously felt like they split one drink into two. Barely a shot in each glass, and the cocktails themselves were just so-so. Very syrup-y flavor. Definitely not "bespoke" or unique the was the server was upselling us. Service started good but when he got busy it went downhill. And by busy he got (1) 5 top.....He was excited about explaining the menu but then never once came back to check on us. When we finally flagged him down and asked for the check, he just dropped the handheld payment terminal on the table, walked away, grabbed it when we finished paying, and said absolutely nothing... no "thank you," no "have a great night," nothing. And this was after we still tipped 20%. Definitely not worth the money, service, or atmosphere. We won't be back.

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P10NEER
P10NEER
P10NEER

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The Blind Rabbit

The Blind Rabbit

4.5(3.5k reviews)
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The Blind Rabbit is one of the coolest speakeasies I've ever been too. I've had some of the most…read moredelicious drinks of my life here -- Each cocktail is hand-crafted with care and expertise. The food is also fantastic. If you love seafood, I highly recommend the scallops The bar is EXTREMELY small, with less than like ten tables plus a few more seats at the bar. So reservations are key if you want to visit, especially during a busy time or one of their specialty themed seasons.

Found this place while searching for local cocktail bars close to the Anaheim Convention Center…read more It's located on the lower level of the Anaheim Packing District, which is made up of multiple businesses spread across a few different buildings. The Blind Rabbit is in building B (I think... 2 story building right off the main road). A reservation is highly recommended, as this spot can only hold about 30 people. As I went alone, my reservation was for a bar seat, which was cool as I was able to watch the bartenders make lots of very cool shaken and stirred drinks. This place serves absinthe drinks plus absinthe served the traditional way (cold water on sugar cube into the alcohol). I did not try that, but was tempted. My pineapple old fashioned (Retired Old Man was what Sergio (bartender) told me) was very tasty. The Tamerand Marg with mezcal that I tried next was just okay (should have stuck with the whiskey!). The ambience is great, but it is quite dark inside. Use the light under the bar top to read the menu. There is food available. I tried the crabcake and thoroughly enjoyed it! If you go looking for the entrance, look for the "boxes" stacked against the wall and the black bunny handle (next to a hostess station that may/may not be staffed). Photos were highly discouraged, so I respected their wishes and just enjoyed the moment. I hope you enjoy it too!

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Fun little spot! Would definitely swing by again. You just go in and order your drinks and find…read moreyour own seat. They whip up the drinks super fast! Came on a Saturday afternoon and was such a cozy area to sit outdoors and enjoy drinks with friends :) Tucked in the corner with a vintage, maximalist, whimsical vibe. I got the bees knees and the estoy enamorado and both were a tiny bit sweet for me but still really good!

A very special bar, from the drinks to the decor. I really like that they are open during the day…read moreand also late at night, with mixed indoor and outdoor seating (though the outdoor seating is a bit worn). Vibes are always good. If you have some time while browsing The Lab during the day, I recommend stopping by for a drink! It's also nice to include in your barhopping itinerary in the evening since there are a number of breweries around too. I've had mixed experiences with the bartenders. Luckily, the gentleman manning the bar during my most recent visit was very friendly. Drinks are always great. I've tried a variety of drinks from the menu here, but my favorites are: -Love in Drunk, a lovely cocktail with cucumber and grapefruit flavors that create a fresh watermelon taste when mixed together -Bee's Knees, short but strong and sweet -London Mule, very herbal thanks to the gin and very refreshing

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Club 616 - Piña Colada cocktail

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4.6(185 reviews)
4.9 mi
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When I said "Bar" and "Santa Ana" in the Yelp search - of course it said "Club 616" in the first…read morespot - OF COURSE IT SAID 616!!! I was lucky enough to stumble across this gem of the center of OC when they first opened - and I am proud to be a regular here. I don't know how to go somewhere else - because I feel like the staff are giant gems in this jewel of a spot. Winters is a curator of boozy information that has helped me learn about "gin" and "root beer whiskey" so I can sound like an adult-ish purveyor, when really I know close to nothing except being a willing student to his creations. Dan the Man and Jacob always see me raise my hand in the corner of the bar, like the student I am, and have been willing to fill in the blanks for me when I know I am of thirst, but do not have the words for what to order. Every person working in the well has treated me with kindness - they have taken the time to get to know me, and I will be forever appreciative of how they have taken care of me over the years. But the real joy has been the transformation that this spot has for building a community of people in Santa Ana for real recognizing real. I have been bringing my Dad with me to play pool for the past few years. Sometimes people ask me if he plays professionally, I am terrible, and my skill incline is slow, he is patient and plays with the same level craftiness that the staff offer the cocktails. My Dad is always stoked when we have time to go have a few hours of games at 616 - especially now that there are regulars on 4th street that are excited to see that he is there playing - and they rush to write their names on the chalkboard to challenge him - or beat him in a game they really earned the W. On lazy Sundays, I watch couples sit with their drink, listening to Jazz, and watching my Dad whoop my ass while making amazing shots. I am forever grateful to Memo who sometimes takes a break from his shift behind the bar to give my dad an actual challenge - which allows me the chance to watch my Dad enjoy fellowship around the table. Knowing the table was a relic of the bars former self, and knowing the history that this spot has in Santa Ana is a reminder that so much around us can change - but it is those moments of the crack of the rack, the cheer of getting the combo shot, and the shake of hands when it's over that shows that it's not just about the pool table - but about the energy of a place that is welcoming and curated by people who care about what they do - and care about who comes through their doors. Thank you Jason and Mike B to bringing this to 4th St and supporting the community that was already here - and for building a community for the future. Thank you to Christina and Brandon for always having amazing pictures, decor, and fun events at 616 that help introduce new folks into this great spot. Time is short. Learn about Root Beer Whiskey. Write your name on the Chalk Board. No one lives forever.

I love the vibe here. It's about the energy and atmosphere for sure. Reminiscent of the bars /…read moreclubs in Baja California or Mexico in general, it's lively with a back patio area and even like a taquero there, at least on weekends. The drat beer selection is solid and the cocktails are well crafted. Highly recommend this spot. One of my favorite it's Downtown Stabba Ana

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Club 616 - Shaken Not Shy cocktail

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YNK - cocktailbars - Updated May 2026

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