The best restaurants in Opelika

55 restaurants we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.

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Restaurants · 55 places · showing the latest additions first

Panera Bread

Restaurants

Counter-serve bakery/cafe chain serving sandwiches, salads & more, known for its bread & free WiFi.

1550 Opelika Rd (Auburn)

“Counter-serve bakery/cafe chain serving sandwiches, salads & more, known for its bread & free WiFi.”

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Taquería y Supermarket Fiesta is the no-fuss Mexican go-to locals lean on, with easy online ordering and hearty taqueria favorites that…

1904 Pepperell Pkwy

“Taquería y Supermarket Fiesta is the no-fuss Mexican go-to locals lean on, with easy online ordering and hearty taqueria favorites that just get the job done. Perfect for quick takeout or low-key hangouts when cooking ambition suddenly disappears.”

From the Opelika newsletter, September 28, 2026

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Whether you need a no-fuss weeknight upgrade or something worthy of the holiday table, The Honey Baked Ham Company delivers ready-to-serve…

1451 Gateway Dr Ste C

“Whether you need a no-fuss weeknight upgrade or something worthy of the holiday table, The Honey Baked Ham Company delivers ready-to-serve smoked hams, turkeys, and roasts with classic sides and desserts that taste homemade. Reliable, craveable, and perfect for Auburn weekends when the oven deserves a timeout.”

From the Opelika newsletter, October 11, 2026

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McAlister's Deli

Restaurants

Easygoing counter-service chain known for its sandwiches, stuffed baked potatoes & sweet tea.

1651 E University Dr (Auburn)

“Easygoing counter-service chain known for its sandwiches, stuffed baked potatoes & sweet tea.”

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Marco's Pizza

Restaurants

Counter-serve chain serving up a menu of specialty or custom pizzas for takeout or delivery.

231 N Dean Rd Ste 1 (Auburn)

“Counter-serve chain serving up a menu of specialty or custom pizzas for takeout or delivery.”

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Barberitos

Restaurants

Order-at-the-counter chain known for Southwestern staples like burritos & a salsa bar.

1619 Opelika Rd #120 (Auburn)

“Order-at-the-counter chain known for Southwestern staples like burritos & a salsa bar.”

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El Patron Mexican Grill keeps it simple and delicious with hand-pressed tortillas, house-simmered salsas, and fajitas that arrive sizzling…

2400 Gateway Dr

“El Patron Mexican Grill keeps it simple and delicious with hand-pressed tortillas, house-simmered salsas, and fajitas that arrive sizzling like they mean it. Street tacos, the loaded shrimp plate, and margaritas worth the trip make it an easy Opelika go-to, whether you want delivery or quick pickup.”

From the Opelika newsletter, October 5, 2026

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Viva la vida

Restaurants

Viva La Vida nails the comfort-Mex trifecta... melty cheese dip, crispy quesabirria you dunk in consomé, and slow-cooked barbacoa with real…

2701 Frederick Rd

“Viva La Vida nails the comfort-Mex trifecta... melty cheese dip, crispy quesabirria you dunk in consomé, and slow-cooked barbacoa with real depth. Order the Viva La Vida Dip if you’re sharing, or just call it an appetizer and keep it moving.”

From the Opelika newsletter, September 23, 2026

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Homey chain restaurant serving American comfort food, with an on-site general store.

1051 Fox Run Ave

“Homey chain restaurant serving American comfort food, with an on-site general store.”

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Waffle House

Restaurants

Simple chain spot offering American diner fare & all-day breakfast, including signature waffles.

2346 Bent Creek Rd (Auburn)

“Simple chain spot offering American diner fare & all-day breakfast, including signature waffles.”

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Amsterdam Cafe

Restaurants

Amsterdam Cafe at Moores Mill brings a fast-casual setup, a new menu, and genuinely good drinks to your side of town, so you can grab lunch…

2301 Ogletree Village Ln (Auburn)

“Amsterdam Cafe at Moores Mill brings a fast-casual setup, a new menu, and genuinely good drinks to your side of town, so you can grab lunch or an easy night out right in your neck of the woods. Fun atmosphere, local feel, and online ordering when couch mode wins.”

From the Auburn newsletter, September 15, 2026

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Relaxed pizzeria chain serving NY-style hand-tossed pies, plus pasta & sandwiches.

2415 Moores Mill Rd Suite 200 (Auburn)

“Relaxed pizzeria chain serving NY-style hand-tossed pies, plus pasta & sandwiches.”

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Waffle House

Restaurants

Simple chain spot offering American diner fare & all-day breakfast, including signature waffles.

2064 Interstate Dr

“Simple chain spot offering American diner fare & all-day breakfast, including signature waffles.”

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If you call Opelika home, Saugahatchee Country Club delivers an 18-hole course, active racquet scene, a big outdoor pool, and an…

3800 Bent Creek Rd

“If you call Opelika home, Saugahatchee Country Club delivers an 18-hole course, active racquet scene, a big outdoor pool, and an exceptional dining operation, all wrapped in that 1946-born, home-away-from-home tradition that locals love. Go for the food, stay for the pickleball chatter.”

From the Opelika newsletter, September 21, 2026

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For gatherings that feel like a warm Italian hug with Southern manners, Piedmont on Piedmont is a private dining house tucked in downtown…

1007 Ave B

“For gatherings that feel like a warm Italian hug with Southern manners, Piedmont on Piedmont is a private dining house tucked in downtown Opelika serving house-made pasta, thoughtfully selected wines, and handcrafted cocktails, perfect for birthdays, date nights, or any excuse to savor a long, unrushed meal.”

From the Opelika newsletter, October 17, 2026

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Butcher Paper BBQ is the kind of spot you hit when you’re craving wood-smoked meats, legit sides, and sauces with personality. Order online…

128 Columbus Pkwy

“Butcher Paper BBQ is the kind of spot you hit when you’re craving wood-smoked meats, legit sides, and sauces with personality. Order online to skip the line, catch their food truck around town, or let their catering rescue your next backyard gathering.”

From the Opelika newsletter, October 10, 2026

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Branch of a laid-back chain known for Southern food & all-day breakfast selections.

2524 Enterprise Dr

“Branch of a laid-back chain known for Southern food & all-day breakfast selections.”

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Local chain known for ribs, chicken & BBQ sandwiches, plus sweets such as cakes & cookies.

2494 Enterprise Dr

“Local chain known for ribs, chicken & BBQ sandwiches, plus sweets such as cakes & cookies.”

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Chain outlet specializing in many different types of chicken salads, plus sandwiches, soups & sides.

1345 Opelika Rd Ste A (Auburn)

“Chain outlet specializing in many different types of chicken salads, plus sandwiches, soups & sides.”

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Boisterous Australian-themed chain serving steaks, seafood & other hearty steakhouse fare.

2115 Pepperell Pkwy

“Boisterous Australian-themed chain serving steaks, seafood & other hearty steakhouse fare.”

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Subway

Restaurants

Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.

2101 Frederick Rd

“Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.”

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Waffle House

Restaurants

Simple chain spot offering American diner fare & all-day breakfast, including signature waffles.

1738 Opelika Rd (Auburn)

“Simple chain spot offering American diner fare & all-day breakfast, including signature waffles.”

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Casa Maria's Mexican Bar and Grill serves sizzling fajitas, street-style tacos, house-made salsas, and handcrafted margaritas made with…

1703 Columbus Pkwy

“Casa Maria's Mexican Bar and Grill serves sizzling fajitas, street-style tacos, house-made salsas, and handcrafted margaritas made with fresh ingredients.”

From the Opelika newsletter, September 14, 2026

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Convenience store-based pizza chain doling out create-your-own pies along with wings.

1460 Gateway Dr

“Convenience store-based pizza chain doling out create-your-own pies along with wings.”

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Marco's Pizza

Restaurants

Counter-serve chain serving up a menu of specialty or custom pizzas for takeout or delivery.

1459 Fox Run Pkwy

“Counter-serve chain serving up a menu of specialty or custom pizzas for takeout or delivery.”

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New Jersey–based counter-serve sandwich chain serving jumbo subs filled with cold cuts & toppings.

2336 Tiger Town Pkwy

“New Jersey–based counter-serve sandwich chain serving jumbo subs filled with cold cuts & toppings.”

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Karvelas Pizza Co. Opelika keeps it simple, not real glamorous, but dang sure delicious. If you want no-fuss, craveable pies from a crew…

704 1st Ave

“Karvelas Pizza Co. Opelika keeps it simple, not real glamorous, but dang sure delicious. If you want no-fuss, craveable pies from a crew that cares, this is your spot, plus easy online ordering and a loyalty app that actually rewards repeat slices.”

From the Opelika newsletter, October 16, 2026

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The Breezeway

Restaurants

The Breezeway is that dependable, no-frills American spot locals lean on for straightforward plates that actually hit the spot. Think…

213 S 8th St

“The Breezeway is that dependable, no-frills American spot locals lean on for straightforward plates that actually hit the spot. Think crispy baskets, hearty sandwiches, and fresh salads, the kind of familiar flavors you crave on a Tuesday when cooking sounds exhausting but good food still matters.”

From the Opelika newsletter, October 9, 2026

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Whether you're in the mood for a perfectly cooked 8 oz filet, blackened chicken fettuccine, or that sensational spinach salad, Hamilton's…

1849 Ogletree Rd (Auburn)

“Whether you're in the mood for a perfectly cooked 8 oz filet, blackened chicken fettuccine, or that sensational spinach salad, Hamilton's On Ogletree delivers contemporary American comfort with a relaxed, wood-warm vibe. Two patios, live music several nights a week, and 30 drafts on tap seal the deal.”

From the Opelika newsletter, October 2, 2026

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Subway

Restaurants

Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.

1017 Columbus Pkwy

“Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.”

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Auburn’s dependable staple, The Bean Coffee Shop has poured collaborative fair trade espresso and served coffee, brunch and desserts since…

140 A N Dean Rd (Auburn)

“Auburn’s dependable staple, The Bean Coffee Shop has poured collaborative fair trade espresso and served coffee, brunch and desserts since 2015. Grab a Pecan Pie or Wild Lavender latte and a made to order crepe, savory Greek or sweet Strawberry Shortcake, when breakfast and lunch need to happen at the same time.”

From the Auburn newsletter, September 12, 2026

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Since 1976, Chuck's Bar-B-Que has been the kind of local standby in Opelika’s historic district you recommend without thinking twice, with…

905 Short Ave

“Since 1976, Chuck's Bar-B-Que has been the kind of local standby in Opelika’s historic district you recommend without thinking twice, with chicken, pork, turkey, and ham piled into plates, sandwiches, wraps, and salads... plus loaded potatoes and nachos. Easy dine-in, takeout, or catering when the whole crew’s hungry.”

From the Opelika newsletter, September 20, 2026

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Locally owned since 1993, Venditori's Italian Restaurant keeps Auburn happily sauced with homemade sauces and Italian classics, hot garlic…

2575 Hilton Garden Dr (Auburn)

“Locally owned since 1993, Venditori's Italian Restaurant keeps Auburn happily sauced with homemade sauces and Italian classics, hot garlic rolls, and a signature house salad locals swear by. Order online, snag a reservation, or tap their catering for family-size feasts...”

From the Auburn newsletter, September 5, 2026

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Botanic

Restaurants

Botanic is the kind of spot you wander into for elevated Southern plates at The Grille, then stay for a market browse, a greenhouse…

1702 Frederick Rd

“Botanic is the kind of spot you wander into for elevated Southern plates at The Grille, then stay for a market browse, a greenhouse daydream, and a bar drink while live music kicks up. Plus, The Market has gifts from local artists, and the Garden Shoppe stocks favorite gardening tools.”

From the Opelika newsletter, October 8, 2026

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Zazu Gastropub

Restaurants

Zazu Gastropub brings fine-dining flavor to a relaxed hangout, turning scratch-made comfort dishes into legit cravings, with produce and…

112 S 8th St

“, and Oakview Farms Granary. Pair it all with 20+ craft brews on tap or a glass of wine, then call it a very good Tuesday.”

From the Opelika newsletter, September 19, 2026

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Niffer's Place Auburn nails the local combo of hand-pattied burgers, can’t-stop corn nuggets, and those infamous fishbowl drinks, all under…

1151 Opelika Rd (Auburn)

“Niffer's Place Auburn nails the local combo of hand-pattied burgers, can’t-stop corn nuggets, and those infamous fishbowl drinks, all under a ceiling of quirky employee fish and colorful chalkboards. Swing by on game nights like trivia or SINGO, grab friends, and settle in for easygoing fun.”

From the Opelika newsletter, October 4, 2026

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Part bar, part restaurant, and fully Auburn, Tiger On The Green serves up easygoing eats and cold drinks in a clubhouse setting, plus…

2601 E University Dr (Auburn)

“Part bar, part restaurant, and fully Auburn, Tiger On The Green serves up easygoing eats and cold drinks in a clubhouse setting, plus LawnGolf when you want to play between bites. Soccer fans, they screen Premier League matches, and they’re set up for casual parties too.”

From the Auburn newsletter, August 20, 2026

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Pokemoto Auburn

Restaurants

Hawaiian-style counter-serve eatery chain serving build-your-own rice bowls and burritos, plus boba tea and wraps.

2900 E University Dr Ste 150 (Auburn)

“Hawaiian-style counter-serve eatery chain serving build-your-own rice bowls and burritos, plus boba tea and wraps.”

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Easygoing chain serving Alabama-style pulled pork & other meats smoked in-house.

2319 Bent Creek Rd #100 (Auburn)

“Easygoing chain serving Alabama-style pulled pork & other meats smoked in-house.”

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Bow & Arrow

Restaurants

When your week calls for proper brisket and a side of queso-fueled happiness, Bow & Arrow nails it with South Texas smokehouse vibes,…

1977 E Samford Ave (Auburn)

“When your week calls for proper brisket and a side of queso-fueled happiness, Bow & Arrow nails it with South Texas smokehouse vibes, housemade tortillas, tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, plus classic BBQ plates with borracho beans. Pair it with a margarita and pretend chores can wait until tomorrow.”

From the Auburn newsletter, August 23, 2026

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Culver’s

Restaurants

Fast-food chain specializing in frozen custard & signature burgers made with Midwest beef & dairy.

2080 E University Dr (Auburn)

“Fast-food chain specializing in frozen custard & signature burgers made with Midwest beef & dairy.”

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Wingstop

Restaurants

Casual counter-serve chain serving a variety of chicken wings & sides.

231 N Dean Rd Ste 5 (Auburn)

“Casual counter-serve chain serving a variety of chicken wings & sides.”

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Agave Loco Mexican Grill is that low-key spot you keep in your back pocket for busy nights, with classic tacos and saucy enchiladas that…

1032 Opelika Rd (Auburn)

“Agave Loco Mexican Grill is that low-key spot you keep in your back pocket for busy nights, with classic tacos and saucy enchiladas that hit the comfort-food switch. Order a cocktail, settle in, and let the conversation do the heavy lifting.”

From the Auburn newsletter, September 4, 2026

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With an extensive lineup of Japanese dishes and a full bar, Takoyaki Restaurant hits that sweet spot for Auburn locals who want easygoing…

2035 Interstate Dr

“With an extensive lineup of Japanese dishes and a full bar, Takoyaki Restaurant hits that sweet spot for Auburn locals who want easygoing vibes with real flavor. Think shareable plates, comforting bowls, and cocktails that play nice with umami, perfect for low-key weeknights or catch-ups that accidentally run long.”

From the Opelika newsletter, September 27, 2026

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Taqueria Durango keeps it simple and delicious with tasty tacos, a legit salsa bar, and the kind of handmade guac and queso you start…

435 N Dean Rd # J (Auburn)

“Taqueria Durango keeps it simple and delicious with tasty tacos, a legit salsa bar, and the kind of handmade guac and queso you start thinking about mid-meeting. Swing by this week when you need an easy dinner that still feels like a treat, then thank yourself later. Check it out.”

From the Auburn newsletter, August 10, 2026

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Enduring sports-themed chain with a menu of pub grub, steaks, seafood & other entrees, plus TVs.

2353 Bent Creek Rd (Auburn)

“Enduring sports-themed chain with a menu of pub grub, steaks, seafood & other entrees, plus TVs.”

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Lucy's

Restaurants

A quick hop from Opelika, Lucy's is that modern American neighborhood spot where shared plates, killer cocktails, and wine on tap make…

2300 Moores Mill Rd (Auburn)

“A quick hop from Opelika, Lucy's is that modern American neighborhood spot where shared plates, killer cocktails, and wine on tap make weeknights feel like an occasion. Brunch lands Friday through Sunday and dinner rolls seven nights, with locally sourced dishes that taste like somebody actually cares...”

From the Opelika newsletter, October 12, 2026

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Mikata

Restaurants

In the mood for sizzle therapy this week, Auburn? Mikata lines up hand-crafted sushi and hibachi cooked right at your table by lively…

323 Airport Rd (Auburn)

“In the mood for sizzle therapy this week, Auburn? Mikata lines up hand-crafted sushi and hibachi cooked right at your table by lively teppanyaki chefs, so you get flavors and fireworks. Planning a gathering soon?”

From the Auburn newsletter, August 30, 2026

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Cook Out

Restaurants

Branch of a fast-food chain known for its drive-thru BBQ, burgers & more than 40 milkshake flavors.

1601 Opelika Rd (Auburn)

“Branch of a fast-food chain known for its drive-thru BBQ, burgers & more than 40 milkshake flavors.”

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Since 1975, Country's Barbecue has done it the hard way, smoking pork over hickory and oak, simmering brunswick stew for two days, and even…

1021 Opelika Rd (Auburn)

“Since 1975, Country's Barbecue has done it the hard way, smoking pork over hickory and oak, simmering brunswick stew for two days, and even squeezing lemons for that pie and lemonade. Go for the ribs or Black Angus hamburger steak, stay for the fresh-cut fries and easygoing vibe.”

From the Auburn newsletter, September 2, 2026

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Relaxed pizzeria chain serving NY-style hand-tossed pies, plus pasta & sandwiches.

2408 E University Dr (Auburn)

“Relaxed pizzeria chain serving NY-style hand-tossed pies, plus pasta & sandwiches.”

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Chain serving burgers, wings, fried rice and cheesesteaks in a casual space.

819 E Glenn Ave #140 (Auburn)

“Chain serving burgers, wings, fried rice and cheesesteaks in a casual space.”

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Since 1989, Byron's Smokehouse has kept Auburn fed with hearty breakfasts, quick lunches, and smokehouse favorites that taste like…

436 Opelika Rd (Auburn)

“Since 1989, Byron's Smokehouse has kept Auburn fed with hearty breakfasts, quick lunches, and smokehouse favorites that taste like somebody’s granddad still watches the pit, so when you want comfort that’s simple, unfussy, and properly smoky, go this week for good food done the Byron’s way.”

From the Auburn newsletter, August 27, 2026

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Casual chain featuring egg dishes & other breakfast items, plus brunch sandwiches.

2311 Bent Creek Rd (Auburn)

“Casual chain featuring egg dishes & other breakfast items, plus brunch sandwiches.”

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Laid-back eatery with quirky decor offering pizza, pasta & subs, plus wings & other appetizers.

1940 E Samford Ave (Auburn)

“Laid-back eatery with quirky decor offering pizza, pasta & subs, plus wings & other appetizers.”

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