Reviews of Otto's French Restaurant London. (Restaurant) in London (London).

Otto's French Restaurant London

272 Reviews

177 Comments

Restaurant

French restaurant

182 Grays Inn Rd, London WC1X 8EW, United Kingdom

Description

Information of Otto's French Restaurant London, Restaurant in London (London)

On this page you’ll find the address, open hours, more popular times, the contact, photos and real reviews of this business.

This business has received very good reviews from their customers, so probably it’s a place you should try if you are looking for this kind of services.

Map

Open hours of Otto's French Restaurant London

Popular times

Monday

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Thursday

Friday

Reviews of Otto's French Restaurant London

S. G. L.

Highly recommend this place. So authentic, the food was delicious and really knowable waiter who made the best beef tartar in front of you with a little description on how he was doing it.

F. E.

Well I had some very very tasty food here. It is small and feels like someones front room because thats the rustic charm of it , food was all nice and yum and french and everyone who worked there seemed pretty nice

M. M.

It is an ideal place for lovers of fish and other seafood, but there are also dishes to taste for meat eaters. Cool promotions every day. Stunning stylish interior, cute waiters, complete relaxation and a sample of a cool institution.

f. a.

Don't be put off by the cultural dissonance - Italian waiting staff in a French restaurant, The bread was better than most you will find even in Paris. All the meat & seafood we had - scallops, pigeon, beef, stonebass, guinea fowl - was cooked to perfection, served with delicious sauces and flairfully garnished. Otto's has a decent wine list and facilities. Very warm and quirky ambiance. Great find.

A. K.

It is an excellent area for fanatics of fish and other seafood, however there are also dishes to taste for meat eaters. Cool promotions every day. Stunning fashionable interior, lovely waiters, whole relaxation and a sample of a cool organization.

Z. M.

No fuss, just absolutely fantastic food! Everything was incroyable from start to finish. The staff were attentive but not in your space, knowledgeable and professional. Otto graced us with his charm and quick whit and I could not have asked for a better dinner to celebrate my 30 years of life. Not only did everything taste amazing but the portion sizes were generous too! Just the way it should be. I hate leaving restaurants hungry and feeling like I paid for air. Well done Otto and team!

S. S.

It’s off course very popular and busy, reservations highly recommended but the team will do best to seat walk ins. I had the famous chai teas and some sides and deserts sat at the bar which is bright and open. The chocolate pudding is definitely the one to pick.

C. C.

Fantastic table side service. The preparation and presentation of the dishes are exquisite. The food is fantastic with a beautiful wine list. The pressed preparations should be ordered at least a week in advance even though the restaurant says 48hrs

S. H.

A one off! Like a time capsule to 1980s Paris! Great, classic, unpretentious cooking. Bubbles flowing, really warm welcome, older clientele but no stuffiness. Ruben too great care of us, and every course made us smile!

M. K.

Wow. This place is spectacular. Had dinner with my partner and my parents for graduation. Amazing traditional French cuisine. We had the pressed duck and roast chicken (you must reserve this ahead of time by phone as the preparation time is quite long). The service was stellar. My dad had the lobster bisque as an appetizer. I’m not a fan of shellfish but this was amazing!!! The three courses for the duck were sublime and desserts were the perfect end to an exceptional meal. Will definitely return!!!

S. L.

Great restaurant with fantastic staff and service. The salad starter was good but a little more truffle oil would have been nice. The escargots were ok, the sauce was great but I was disappointed that they were not served in their shells. The pressed duck was the star of the show, first the liver, then the breast in the most amazing sauce followed by the leg which was very good served with some breast meat and crispy skin. The sides were good, particularly the potatoes. I was so happy that I was allowed to use the duck press! We had a wonderful time and I do not hesitate to recommend. The service at the table made it a very special experience.

m. s.

No fuss, just virtually excellent meals! Everything was incroyable from start to finish. The group of workers had been attentive however not in your area, knowledgeable and expert. Otto graced us with his appeal and brief whit and I couldn't have requested for a higher dinner to have a good time my 30 years of lifestyles. Not most effective did the whole thing taste incredible but the element sizes have been beneficiant too! Just the manner it need to be. I hate leaving eating places hungry and feeling like I paid for air. Well accomplished Otto and crew!

L. A.

Lovely relaxed atmosphere, excellent food, friendly and welcoming service. We had canard a la presse and were not disappointed. The wine list is compact and compliments the menu well, with something available at most price points. Heartily recommend and will be back to sample the regular menu.

R. A.

Absolutely love this place. Really friendly staff, delicious food makes for a great dinner out - leave a good couple of hours for a proper 2-3 course dinner with excellent wine. The pressed duck is very good - but ring ahead at least the day before to book if that's what you're after.

P. B.

The food and service is amazing and the price is rather reasonable for London. The setting is quite unique. We were seated in the basement and were surrounded by bottles of wine and pictures of Maylin Monroe.

L. N.

Odd location - do not be put off by that. This is French classical cookery at its best....Otto is an eccentric delight, the waiters (wine and otherwise) exceptional experts in their work and Helen - what a chef. Everything is generous in size and spirit. Such a find

N. S.

Classic French cooking with hearty dishes and french products. Two special dishes one must order in advance - the duck and the bisque! Otto will come to your table and would finish the dish at your table in front of you. Great wine selection too! #letsguide

T. T.

If you can't get to Paris....this is the next best thing. Old school, classic, and elegant.

E. S.

Old world French culinary theatre presented with charm and pride. Flambés Galore, tableside presentation of the duck before cooking, and more. The saucing can be intensely rich, but also unexpectedly delicate. The duck they are famed for is uniquely lean, and the breast with blood sauce a delicate, irony punctuation to the feast. Do not be put off by the location and cheap facade, this is hidden gem.

C. B.

1:The line is long. I arrived around 11:30 a.m. At 12:15 p.m., I received food. However, the experience was fantastic, as was the food. There is no place to eat at this location. They only let a few people in at a time, so you can really browse around and enjoy it like it's not too crowded.

C. D.

Absolutely delicious! On the pricey side but you certainly get what you pay for. I didn't order the scallop and regretted it when I saw how beautiful it looked. (Definitely opt for that when you go) my lamb, however, was exceptional.

B. G.

I had a brilliant time here for our team Christmas party. The private dining room downstairs was perfect and the food was delicious! Thank you

J. D.

Had to go for the duck press and it didn't dissapoint. The food is as expected excellent but the whole experience is what it's all about and makes this place special. In a city of walk in no reservation popups and their ilk this is like big hug. Indeed it's fine dining but done on a personal level that has all but disappeared. We loved it and will be back for the amazing looking Tartare.

P. A.

Unforgettable experience at Otto's. We went there for our anniversary and ordered the pressed duck in advance and it was well worth it. The whole experience was amazing, we participated in the duck carving, pressing the carcasse and witnessed how the sauce was made. The service was great and Otto is such a nice man to chat with. We ended the night with a delicious Grand Marnier soufflé. Amazing night

E. j.

An amazing experience. I've never befored dined in a place that combines formal food in an informal setting to such perfection. Truly brilliant and some of the tastiest food in London.

B. L.

I celebrated my nomination yesterday in this gorgeous place. happy to tell that we had a fantastic evening and the restaurant was no doubt one of the reasons for the fruitful meeting. The waiters helped in a lovely way, the meals were very good and my guests were very glad. We shall no dout visit again for more celebrations. Thank you very much.

P. B.

Intimate venue serving beautifully cooked food and amazing selection of wines available with each course. Superb!

N.

I came in with my friends by accident and was delighted. I liked everything in general: polite and competent staff, very tasty food and drinks.

D. Z.

An amazing experience. I've never befored dined in a place that combines formal food in an informal setting to such perfection.

G. H.

Phenomenal secret french restaurant. Stunning service and food. Love it here. Will keep coming back.

H. L.

Food is delicious, however being charged for soda water is not right,considering how much we paid.

R. T.

Food is super delicious and affordable! We had a feast there! Very nice services.

C. H.

It's absolutely fabulous. Lovely staff and amazing food. Highly recommended.

T. P.

Lovely staff and yummy food. Cute little gem in Central London with a peaceful back garden

J.

Traditional French food, cooked to perfection and often skilfully prepared at the table, which is something that's increasingly rare to find. This together with the Duck/Chicken/Lobster press makes this place a much more unique experience than many of the more gimmicky, "wannabe" places around and one of our go-to restaurants in London.

P. W.

Enjoyed the evening, food was very good. Definitely come back again to try the rest of the menu.

N. S.

Fantastic food and service with great eclectic style.

V. L.

Great place, fantastic wine, good service!

w. d.

"Authentic french food, incredibly knowledgable staff and great service"

C. G.

Lovely quaint restaurant, the pressed duck is amazing !!

B. B.

Simply sublime. Well looked after for my father's birthday. Superb food, wine and service levels. Highly highly recommended.

C. W.

Superb. Quite simply superb. The food and the ambience can’t be beaten. It’s hard finding genuinely authentic restaurants, but this place is magnificent.

R. O.

Never disappointed food. Service is very good as well.

P. B.

Oh God, the souffles! I had the cheese one as a main and thought I had reached souffle nirvana but then I ordered the Gran Marnier for dessert and I was deliciously proven wrong: I had then made it to souffle heaven. The steak a la minute and the scallops were amazing as well. Kind and super chic staff (although they're totally cool with people dressed in shorts and t-shirts, it's 2019 after all!). I can only recommend, really good!

A. E.

My favorite restaurant in London - period. I like restaurants where the owner is on the premises. Otto is not only on the premises, he is making sure that every detail is right, everywhere, all the time. The food is first rate. The ambiance is unique and welcoming. The service is spectacular, with high attention paid to mise en place and steak tartar prepared tableside. I am not a big dessert person, and I highly recommend multiple desserts. Do not miss this place. Otto does it right.

D. B.

Come here with my wife, amazing food, highly recommend

M. R.

Lovely spot for a client lunch. Visited in the heat way and fortunately sat down stairs with the air conditioning. The food was lovely, really enjoyed the smoked salmon freshly carved. Service was good but could have been more attentive as we were on a time limit. Given the small space should have been easier to notice when customers needed something.

M. S.

Absolutely fantastic dining experience. Loved every piece of food - excellent quality. The food is not the only reason I would recommend that restaurant. The service and the whole atmosphere are unique. The two hours there were better than a west end show. Brilliant collaboration between kitchen and dining hall. I wish all seats in the restaurant to be always occupied with happy customers like me. Btw the wine list is really good and staff really knows what to offer

S. F.

Absolutely perfect from my first walking through the door to leaving this wonderful Restaurant. Tremendous well prepared and flavoursome food and attentive personal service . As a small establishment it compares to any of your big high end Michelin star restaurants but without the pretention that is sometimes prevalent that some clients actually like (each to their own ) .

S. H.

The service is always hospitable here, and the staffs are great with recommendations if you're ever stuck. The intuition is stress-free, and it's a great place to hang out with friends for a while. Love there foods, especially there pizza! Its very juicy and flavorful. The crust ends up being crumbly and almost cookie’ like, with lots of flavor and grit. I must say this is incredible and absolutely a highly recommended place ever!

L. P.

Excellent food, good atmosphere, interesting decor. Unusual.

P. F.

Fantastic dinner, charming dining room and friendly efficient service. Felt like we travelled to Paris.

B. S.

My girlfriend surprised me with a dinner here for my birthday and it was absolutely fantastic. Can't recommend the pressed duck enough and the whole waiting staff were amazing, overall one of the best (if not best) dining experiences I've had!

I. R.

just absolutely fantastic food!

K. R.

Great, proper French food at a good price. Good service. The decor is a bit ‘dated’, and could do with a refresh.

M. P.

Outstanding service and great table-side show, erm, I mean preparation. We went here with my wife and another couple. All of us had different food, and all loved it. Wine list is also great. Go for the food prepared at your table!

G. C.

Otto's is an experience. Old school french indulgence with a splash of kitsch. High quality cooking, a real treat. Show a little bravery and try this magnificent little gem. Amazing service and cosy atmosphere.

I. S.

We came here for a family member's birthday dinner on a Friday night. Perhaps if they played some background music, it wouldn't have felt so lifeless in here, as we were the only people dining in there on that day. The service was pleasant, but the portions were quite small (which i guess is quite typical for a French restaurant). Everything on the menu was quite pricey.

h. g.

Classic French cooking with hearty dishes and french products."

C. R.

This is THE place for truly beautifully cooked food and stunning wines professionally served. No it's not "trendy" but then that is why it is still here whilst imitators and Johnny-come-lately outfits have closed. Everything is utterly delicious.

H. W.

A taste of traditional French cooking in the centre of London, quite a find. Visited here after a trip to the Charles Dickens Museum. There is a delicious set lunch menu for £26 for 2 courses. The a la carte has a number of traditional dishes like escargot, and lobster bisque. My steak tartare was amazing prepared at the table. You can preorder homard a la presse and duck a la presse they have only one of 5 presses in the world.

c. t.

Classical French cooking of the old school, harking back to the glory days of Maxim's and the Tour d'Argent. There is no restaurant in London like it. I had the "Signature" tasting menu this time -- sauteed wild mushroom with foie gras, ravioli of lobster and Cornish scallops, slow cooked suckling pig, and crepe Suzette flambéed at the table. It was as ever heavenly. M Otto is a great character, and a great restaurateur.

J. W.

Excellent customer service, polite and with a smile.

C. R.

I have eaten with friends and colleagues at Otto's now on at least 8 separate occasions both at lunchtime and in the evening. The food and service is excellent and the wine incredibly good value with some real gems in the cellar. Otto and his team are very knowledgeable and extremely friendly, I suspect the food here has something to do with my rapidly growing waistline!

P. F.

Fantastic restaurant. Traditional, warm, welcoming... A lovely change from the modern, impersonal, systematised dining as corporate experience model. Otto himself is hilarious and a great host... The menu is one of those where you struggle to choose (not that common these days) and incredibly well executed. The best steak tartare in London. (The only complaint is that it was perhaps too large a portion...which isn't really a complaint.) Everyone in the restaurant looked like they were having fun...enjoying themselves. How often do you see that? It's not cheap, let's be clear. But for the same price, you can have an indentikit meal at a Hawksmoor, or a Gaucho...or any of the modern chains that bill you £35 a steak. Or have fun at Otto's. It was just a fundamentally enjoyable experience... I want to go back.

C. W.

Classic French cooking with hearty dishes and french products.

a. S.

Otto's is an institution. Perennial french classics & regional specials. Atmosphere indicative of company - timeless & broadsweeping with measured, tuned, tableside service. Vibrant esoteric wine list. Duck press outstanding. Otto is unforgettable.

d. m.

Top shelf. Otto's is bonkers but that's part of the experience. A rare evening to be had with a character that doesn't exist in a world decided by committee. Not for the faint hearted. If you love great wine and extravagance this is for you. Super traditional, but you need to get in the spirit of it. Do it if you want something out of the ordinary. And don't mention the war! Lol

Z. S.

freshly cooked, friendly man serving.

E. M.

Service was a bit slow- we had to try and catch someone’s eye when we wanted something which sometimes is fine, but I felt this was bordering on the side of annoying. If you go, make sure you’re sat upstairs and not downstairs as the atmosphere is very different. We were sat under the stairwell where dust fell onto us whenever someone went up or down the stairs. Food was nice- the quenelle and lobster bisque was great.

A. H.

We had a pre theatre course except we weren't actually going to the theatre afterwards. The waiter didn't bat an eyelid when we stayed till 9pm. The decor is shabby chic french and downstairs is a beautiful old table that can sit up to 20 - I am definitely keen to come back with a group of us. Lastly the food was delicious and the wine list impressive.

M. G.

Canard a la Presse is one of the best food experiences I have ever had. The duck is the best I have had anywhere by a very long shot. Otto and his team are absolutely incredible, and the fact that you see the cooking process right in front of you makes it even better. One thing I would say is if you are having the duck, it's a huge amount of food, so don't eat too much before you get there. Definitely in my top four restaurants in London - alongside Gauthier, Petrus and Dinner.

H. M.

Welcoming, atmospheric, genuine French restaurant with exquisite cuisine. Delightful!

S. M.

Wonderful French food, Delightfully bonkers décor and Otto is total gentleman and character.The star dish is Duck a la presse at Ottos, is one of the few places outside of France where you can sample this extremely rich classic dish and you even get a numbered certificate. Closely followed by lobster a la presse that I have not seen on any other menu although there must be somewhere in France that does it. The wine list is stunning and extremely reasonable fairly priced wines wines costing a lot more in other restaurants due to fixed multiples (generally 4x) are here (and I'm guessing it's a fixxed parkup + a lower multiple) accessible and so you can push the boat out without feeling ripped off. Go

J. C.

Classic French cooking, impeccable service and top notch wine list.

M. K.

I really love their dishes and customer service, great location to where I live. The employees are always very friendly. Would recommend to others.

J. S.

We had the pressed duck, and it was the kind of meal that you really remember. Every course was delicious, but what made it even better was that Otto describes what he's doing at each step, and makes it a truly personal experience. We'll be back very soon.

E. v. W.

On 25/9/2015 I was invited to a gorgeous lunch at Otto's. Had the Terrine de Foie Gras for starters, very nice! Next the Tournedos Rossini (blue) with fresh black and white truffles on a bed of spinach and mashed potato. Topped with a nicely baked Foie Gras. The smell and taste were heavenly! The accompanying wines were perfect, just like the port wine that went with the selection of cheeses. Finished with a double espresso and ice-cold black chocolate sea shells (delicious!). Happy to come back many more times!

M. L.

Superb food with a quality service.

E. T.

Would certainly recommend eating here. Awesome vibes, delightful dishes, good customer service. They never disappoint.

O. A.

My girlfriend surprised me with a dinner here for my birthday and it was absolutely fantastic. Can't recommend the pressed duck enough.

M. K.

If you have to exchange your sister's kidney's to have the pressed duck (which you have to order in advance) then do it. This place should be on any gourmand's radar; a unique and legendary dining experience.

P. C.

Overpriced for what it is. I dont consider this authentic French couisine and portions were small. Some of the staff were not as friendly as you would thing for a place like this.

P. C.

It was a fantastic experience. Delicious food, great wines and a superb service. 100% recommended. Otto, you are a great host

A. W.

Quirky place. The traditional French food is very competent and service is good but at times you feel like you are dining at somebody's house. A little expensive for what it was.

R. K.

Superb restaurant. We had an amazing time. The food was delicious and incredibly presented.

J. R.

A restaurant so gloriously and single-mindedly French that if the Marseillaise had begun playing during our excellent meal, I'd have stood to attention as a reflex to our surroundings.

B. D.

It was an amazing experience have dinner. Wonderful food, excellent service. Very expensive restaurant.

K. 1.

Pop art meets velvet banquettes and antiques in a restaurant serving updated classic French dishes.

A. G.

•Classic interior and menu •The only place you can find duck à la presse in this side of London •Very tasty food •Owner and staff are friendly & professional •Prices are reasonable for the type of food and service •would recommend if you want some classic French foood

V. M.

Amazing elegant decedent meal! Intimate restaurant and lovely staff. Wonderful food for a special occasion

B. -. C. F.

Hearty dishes and authentic french food, incredibly knowledgeable staff and great service. Highly recommended

S. v. R.

A little slice of Paris in London with an outstanding value set menu, high ceilings,exceptional service and above scrumptious food left us vowing to eat here again soon a little gem As it says in French on the outside old fashioned food and Service which translates to outstanding food and service in a city obsessed with making everything slick and new this is an Oasis to anyone who appreciates what makes the little nooks in Paris such delightful places to eat but better here there was not a single obnoxious GawpingAmerican tourist to ruin the atmosphere So A little slice of heaven!

M. P.

Just you hope for from a classic French restaurant: first class ingredients prepared and presented with an apparent simplicity that belies the care and attention they receive.

J.

The best French food outside of France. The canard press is a meal never forgotten. Truly wonderful.

K. H.

Food is pretty good but very rich, traditional French -- the atmostphere is very old school which can be good depending on the vibe you're looking for.

Z. N.

Amazing ambient and delicious food. And the German owner Otto is very charming. For me as a German in American it was very delightful.

K. S.

Very nice and delicious food. Service was good. Ambience and presentation of food was very impressive.

E. B.

Delicious, decadent, comfortable. All round fantastic restaurant and top class food

M. S.

One of the more ridiculous places I've been: technically correct French cuisine, pretentious service, inexplicable decor of film stars on the walls and throw pillows. I'll go back.

I. F.

Top 🔝

H. N.

Fantastic restaurant. Authentic french food, incredibly knowledgable staff and great service

W. L.

Amazing food, especially the lobster!!!

A. W.

The restaurant had a great atmosphere and staff highly knowledgeable and attentive.

D. P.

Had the special duck menu. Needs booking in advance but one of the beat meals I've ever had.

R. S.

Expensive but if you like classic French food it is worth it. Very traditional

S. 1.

Some very tasty good

H. A.

Their canard a la presse is amazing. Don’t get appetizers if you order it

M. S.

Nothing too special. Good tasting food overall. I little pricey for what it was.

N. '. S.

Not as good as it once was. Portions are now quite small and the price has gone up. So sad, as it was once a little hidden gem in London. Ah well.......need to find another place now!

M. A.

Delicious food! Nice atmosphere..

M. M.

One of favourite restaurants in London. Great food, good atmosphere.

M. A.

Undoubtedly one of the finest fine-dining restaurants in London. Thank you all for a most memorable evening

P. S.

An absolute delight. (Only for those who will appreciate classic French style food and service.)

S. N.

Fantastic food with a team that Professionally is unnoticeable. A complete surprise. Congratulations!

F. B.

Very good good and wine and but you have to pay for the premium.

K. C.

Sublime food and lovely service. Will be back for sure.

W. B.

A really excellent meal served with the humour and charm which is the hallmark of Otto.

D. F.

Classic, food as expected. Design non existent. Absolutely fabulous :)

R. M.

Very welcoming staff.. The service is excellent and the canard a la presse is magnifique

S. P.

One of the best lunches I v had in London !

B. L.

Phenomenal. Great artistry, excellent flavours and fragrances. Spectacular.

S. M. G.

French classics cooked well. Great tartare.

P. E.

Outstanding. The pressed duck is not just a meal, but a way of life.

P. K.

Fantastic lunch Back in traditional french cuisine Love it

A. J.

Good French Food. Good ambient. Nice Service

W. S.

Great evening with great old-fashioned classic French food.

A. D.

Absolutely yummy

l. d.

beautifully odd. good food though!

W. R.

Great food and ambience, another service was perfect.

D. B.

Great food, atmosphere and service

M. C.

Delicious food

C. N.

Excellent old school French cuisine.

S. t. M.

Not bad

R. C.

Very friendly staff. Great food

W. L.

The best French restaurant on this side of the Channel

V. T.

Expensive but worth the money. Perfect for celebration

K. “. T. T.

Amazing food and excellent service

S. A.

Cosy, good service, excellent food.

B. C.

Fantastic food and great service

M. R.

Absolutely amazing! Highly recommend.

O. R.

Read Fay Maschler's review in the Standard. It is what she says

K. C.

Have the duck, you won't regret it

T. N.

Great European class restaurant

J. S.

My best meal in London in 2017

B. K.

worth the money

K. J.

Best place to eat in London!

J. C.

Best French restaurant in London

P. R.

Perfect

D. L.

Had a high quality stake here.

M. R.

Excellent food and service

A. P.

Excellent French cuisine

a. s.

a sumptuous dining experience

F. D. P.

The service Is top level

R. K.

Best

S. B.

I loved it

J. L.

Good food and service

M. B.

Great food.

p. c.

Fantastic!

B. B.

Excellent!

D. G.

great food

M. C.

High quality food with reasonable price! Highly recommended!

C. W.

Nice place, delicious food and good service!

G. T.

(Translated) I know the restaurant very well since I had the opportunity to work there for six months so I know the cuisine the specifically French specialties such as duck a la presse les escargot la creme bruleé la tarte tatin la puolé chausson le fillet de venison and a large cellar of champagne and French wines specially selected by otto's who is a connoisseur and is capable of French origin (Original) Il ristorante lo conosco molto bene poiché ho avuto modo di lavorarci per ben sei mesi quindi conosco la cucina le specialità specificatamente francesi quali l'anatra a la presse les escargot la creme bruleé la tarte tatin la puolé chausson le fillet de venison e una grande cantina di champagne e vini francesi selezionati appositamente da otto's che è un'intenditore ed è in grado di origine francese

g. c.

(Translated) Pretty. Great food and service (Original) Jolie. Bonne nourriture et service

L. A.

(Translated) Great option. The steak tartar is excellent. (Original) Ótima opção. O steak Tartar é excelente.

t. h.

R. B.

T. N.

A. L.

Z. X.

E. C.

T.

T. I.

J. H.

A. H.

F. M.

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