Utica Chinese Food Delivery Your Guide to Delicious Eats

Administrator March 30, 2025

Utica Chinese food delivery has become a staple for many, offering a convenient and flavorful dining experience from the comfort of home. This guide explores the diverse world of Chinese cuisine available for delivery in Utica, providing insights into popular restaurants, menu offerings, and ordering procedures. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran of delivery or a curious newcomer, this exploration promises to be both informative and appetizing.

We’ll navigate the landscape of Utica’s Chinese food scene, from the highly-rated establishments to the specific dishes that keep customers coming back for more. Expect detailed information on ordering methods, delivery services, customer reviews, and factors influencing delivery times. Furthermore, we’ll delve into the visual aspects of delivery, including food presentation and the interaction between delivery drivers and customers.

Popular Utica Chinese Food Delivery Restaurants

Utica, New York, boasts a diverse culinary landscape, and Chinese food holds a special place in the hearts (and stomachs!) of many residents. The convenience of delivery services makes enjoying these flavorful dishes even easier. This guide explores some of the most popular Chinese restaurants in Utica that offer delivery, highlighting their specialties and most-ordered items.

The information presented is based on readily available online resources, customer reviews, and restaurant listings. Delivery times and radii can vary, so it’s always advisable to confirm details directly with the restaurant before placing an order.

Highly-Rated Chinese Restaurants Offering Delivery

Several Chinese restaurants in Utica have garnered positive reviews and offer convenient delivery services. These establishments provide a range of culinary experiences, from classic American-Chinese fare to more authentic regional specialties.

China City: Known for its extensive menu and generous portions, China City offers a wide variety of dishes. Their cuisine leans towards classic American-Chinese staples.
China King: China King is another popular choice, praised for its quick service and consistently tasty food. Their menu is also focused on traditional American-Chinese dishes.
Golden Dragon: Golden Dragon is celebrated for its flavorful dishes and reasonable prices. They offer a diverse selection of Chinese food options.
New China: This restaurant is a favorite among locals, particularly for its consistent quality and convenient delivery. They provide a traditional American-Chinese dining experience.
Taste of China: Taste of China offers a more modern approach to Chinese cuisine, with some unique menu items alongside the traditional favorites.

Most Frequently Ordered Dishes

Each restaurant has its own set of popular dishes that consistently attract customers. These items often reflect the restaurant’s specialties and customer preferences.

China City: Frequently ordered dishes include General Tso’s Chicken, Sesame Chicken, and various combination platters.
China King: Popular choices include Chicken with Broccoli, Fried Rice, and Crab Rangoon.
Golden Dragon: Customers frequently order their General Tso’s Chicken, Sweet and Sour Chicken, and Lo Mein.
New China: General Tso’s Chicken, Beef with Broccoli, and Egg Rolls are consistently popular at New China.
Taste of China: Their most ordered dishes include Orange Chicken, Spicy Garlic Shrimp, and innovative specialty rolls.

Average Delivery Time and Delivery Radius

Delivery times and the areas served are essential considerations for customers. The following table provides an overview, though it’s crucial to confirm these details directly with the restaurant at the time of ordering.

The table below illustrates the average delivery times and estimated delivery radii for each restaurant. Please note that these figures are approximate and subject to change based on factors such as order volume, traffic, and location.

Restaurant	Average Delivery Time	Delivery Radius (approximate)	Notes
China City	30-45 minutes	3-5 miles	Delivery times can vary during peak hours.
China King	25-40 minutes	2-4 miles	Check for delivery availability outside the radius.
Golden Dragon	35-50 minutes	3-5 miles	May have a minimum order requirement.
New China	20-35 minutes	2-4 miles	Known for relatively fast delivery.
Taste of China	30-45 minutes	3-5 miles	Delivery radius may extend based on order size.

Menu Offerings and Special Deals

Utica’s Chinese food delivery scene caters to a diverse range of tastes and preferences. Restaurants offer a wide array of classic dishes and convenient deals to entice customers. This section explores the standard menu offerings, including appetizers, entrees, and soups, and delves into the promotional strategies that make Utica’s Chinese food delivery a popular choice.

Common Menu Items

Chinese food restaurants in Utica typically feature a standard menu of appetizers, entrees, and soups, ensuring customers have a variety of options. The availability of these menu items makes it easier for customers to find their favorite dishes and try new ones.

Appetizers: These are often designed to be shared and include items like egg rolls, spring rolls, crab rangoons, dumplings (steamed or fried), and wonton soup. These appetizers provide a great start to the meal, offering a variety of textures and flavors. For example, a restaurant might offer a combination platter featuring a selection of these popular appetizers.
Entrees: The entree section is usually the most extensive, with a wide selection of dishes based on meat, seafood, or vegetables. Popular choices include General Tso’s chicken, sesame chicken, beef with broccoli, sweet and sour pork or chicken, lo mein, chow mein, and various fried rice options. Customers can often choose the protein, level of spiciness, and side dishes.
Soups: Soups often complement the entrees and provide a warm, comforting start to a meal. Common soups include egg drop soup, hot and sour soup, wonton soup, and noodle soups. The availability of these soups adds to the versatility of the menu.

Special Deals and Promotions

Utica Chinese food delivery restaurants frequently employ special deals and promotions to attract customers and boost sales. These promotions can take various forms, making it easier for customers to enjoy their meals at a lower cost.

Lunch Specials: These are very common and usually offer a smaller portion of an entree, served with fried rice and an egg roll, at a discounted price during lunchtime hours. For example, a restaurant might offer General Tso’s chicken with fried rice and an egg roll for $8.99 between 11 AM and 3 PM.
Family Meal Deals: These are designed for larger groups and typically include a combination of entrees, appetizers, and rice, at a bundled price. This is often a cost-effective option for families or groups of friends. A family meal deal might include two entrees, two appetizers, and a large rice for $30.
Combo Meals: These meals combine an entree with a side dish, such as fried rice or a spring roll, at a discounted price compared to ordering the items separately. Combo meals provide a convenient and affordable option for a complete meal.
Free Delivery: Many restaurants offer free delivery within a certain radius, which can be a significant incentive for customers.
Online Ordering Discounts: Some restaurants offer discounts or special deals for online orders, encouraging customers to use their online platforms.
Loyalty Programs: Some restaurants offer loyalty programs where customers earn points for their purchases, which can be redeemed for discounts or free items.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

The availability of vegetarian and vegan options has become increasingly important for Chinese food delivery in Utica. Restaurants are adapting their menus to cater to these dietary preferences.

Vegetarian Dishes: Many restaurants offer a selection of vegetarian dishes, such as vegetable lo mein, tofu dishes, and vegetable-based stir-fries. These dishes are often clearly marked on the menu to avoid confusion.
Vegan Options: Vegan options are often available, with dishes that exclude all animal products, including meat, dairy, and eggs. Customers can often customize dishes to be vegan by requesting no egg or dairy. For instance, a restaurant might offer a vegan version of General Tso’s tofu.
Customization: Restaurants often allow customers to customize dishes to meet their dietary needs. For example, customers can request that a dish be made with tofu instead of meat or ask for a dish to be prepared without certain ingredients.

Ordering Procedures and Delivery Services: Utica Chinese Food Delivery

Navigating the world of Utica Chinese food delivery is made easy through various ordering methods and delivery options. Understanding these processes ensures a smooth and convenient experience, allowing you to enjoy your favorite dishes from the comfort of your home. This section Artikels the available ordering methods, provides a step-by-step guide for online ordering, and compares delivery services and payment options.

Methods for Placing an Order

Customers have multiple avenues to place their orders, ensuring flexibility and convenience. The available options typically include:

Phone Orders: This is a traditional method where customers directly call the restaurant to place their order. This method allows for direct communication with restaurant staff, enabling clarification of menu items and special requests.
Online Platforms: Many restaurants partner with online food delivery platforms or offer their own websites for online ordering. These platforms typically provide a user-friendly interface with menus, photos, and ordering options.
Mobile Apps: Many restaurants and third-party delivery services offer mobile applications for ordering. These apps provide a convenient way to browse menus, customize orders, and track deliveries on smartphones or tablets.

Step-by-Step Procedure for Online Ordering from a Popular Utica Chinese Restaurant

Ordering online generally follows a straightforward process. Here’s a typical example, using a hypothetical popular Utica Chinese restaurant, “Dragon Palace”:

Access the Ordering Platform: Open the Dragon Palace restaurant’s website or the associated app on your device.
Browse the Menu: Navigate through the menu, which is usually categorized by food type (e.g., appetizers, entrees, soups). View the menu items, including descriptions and any available options (e.g., spice level, add-ons).
Add Items to Your Cart: Click on the desired menu items, specifying any customization options. Add each item to your virtual cart.
Review Your Order: Before proceeding, review the items in your cart to confirm accuracy. Make any necessary adjustments, such as changing quantities or removing items.
Provide Delivery Information: Enter your delivery address, ensuring accuracy. You may be prompted to provide contact information like your phone number.
Select Payment Method: Choose your preferred payment option (e.g., credit card, debit card, or cash on delivery if available). Enter the required payment details.
Confirm Your Order: Review the order summary, including the items, delivery address, and payment information. Click the “Place Order” button to submit your order.
Track Your Order: You may receive notifications regarding your order’s status, including order confirmation, preparation, and delivery updates.

Comparison of Delivery Services

Delivery services vary among restaurants, with options ranging from in-house delivery to third-party services. Each method offers its own set of advantages and considerations.

In-House Delivery: Some restaurants have their own delivery drivers. This can sometimes lead to faster delivery times and more direct communication with the restaurant. However, the delivery area may be limited.
Third-Party Delivery Services: Restaurants often partner with third-party delivery services such as DoorDash, Grubhub, or Uber Eats. These services provide a wider delivery radius and offer a broader customer base. Delivery fees and service charges typically apply. The restaurant pays a commission to the service for each order.

Payment Options Accepted by Most Restaurants

Restaurants in Utica typically accept a variety of payment methods to cater to customer preferences. Common payment options include:

Credit and Debit Cards: Most restaurants accept major credit and debit cards, providing a convenient and secure payment method.
Cash: Cash on delivery is frequently available, allowing customers to pay the driver directly upon receiving their order.
Online Payment Platforms: Some restaurants accept payments through online platforms like PayPal or other digital wallets.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Understanding customer feedback is crucial when choosing a Chinese food delivery restaurant in Utica. Reviews provide valuable insights into the experiences of other diners, helping you make informed decisions. This section will guide you on how to find and interpret these reviews.

Locating Customer Reviews

Finding customer reviews is a straightforward process, often involving popular online platforms. These platforms allow customers to share their experiences and rate restaurants.

Google Reviews: Search for the restaurant’s name on Google. The right-hand side of the search results will often display a summary of reviews, including the average rating and a snippet of recent feedback. Clicking on the rating or “Google Reviews” link will take you to the full review page, where you can read individual comments.
Yelp: Yelp is another popular platform for finding restaurant reviews. Search for “Chinese food delivery Utica NY” or the specific restaurant’s name on Yelp’s website or app. You’ll find ratings, reviews, photos, and other helpful information.
Other Platforms: Consider checking other platforms like Facebook, Grubhub, or DoorDash (if the restaurant uses them for ordering) for reviews. These platforms may have integrated review systems.

Common Customer Feedback

Customer reviews often touch upon several key aspects of the dining experience. Understanding these areas helps in evaluating the restaurant.

Food Quality: This is a primary concern. Reviews often discuss the taste, freshness, and overall quality of the dishes. Phrases like “authentic flavors,” “fresh ingredients,” or “bland taste” are common indicators.
Delivery Speed: Timeliness is crucial for delivery services. Customers frequently comment on how quickly their food arrived. Look for comments such as “arrived promptly” or “took over an hour.”
Customer Service: Interactions with the restaurant staff, both over the phone and with delivery personnel, are important. Feedback can range from “friendly service” to “rude staff.”
Order Accuracy: Receiving the correct items is essential. Reviews will often mention if the order was complete and accurate or if there were any mistakes.
Value for Money: Customers often evaluate the price relative to the portion size and quality of the food. Comments might include “good value” or “expensive for what you get.”

Positive and Negative Review Examples

Examining a range of reviews provides a balanced perspective. Here are some examples of positive and negative feedback that you might encounter.

Positive Reviews:

“The General Tso’s chicken was fantastic! Crispy, flavorful, and the perfect amount of spice. Delivery was fast too!”
-This review highlights food quality and delivery speed.
“Always a great experience. The staff is friendly, and the food is consistently delicious. I’ve been ordering from them for years.”
-This demonstrates consistency in food quality and customer service.
“Huge portions and great prices! The wonton soup is amazing. Definitely recommend.”
-This highlights value for money and specific menu items.

Negative Reviews:

“The food arrived cold, and the spring rolls were soggy. Very disappointed.”
-This focuses on food quality and delivery issues.
“Ordered online, and it took over an hour and a half to arrive. The driver was also unfriendly.”
-This highlights delivery speed and customer service concerns.
“The order was incorrect. They forgot the rice, and the chicken was dry. Called to complain, and they were not helpful.”
-This demonstrates order accuracy and customer service problems.

Delivery Areas and Availability

Understanding the delivery areas and operational hours of Utica’s Chinese food delivery services is crucial for a smooth and satisfying dining experience. This section provides insights into the geographical reach of these services and factors that can affect their availability and delivery times.

Geographical Areas Served

The delivery zones for Utica Chinese food restaurants typically vary depending on the establishment. Some restaurants may offer delivery within a limited radius, while others may extend their services to a broader area. Determining the precise delivery boundaries often requires checking the restaurant’s website, online ordering platform, or contacting them directly.

Typical Delivery Hours

Delivery hours in Utica for Chinese food restaurants generally align with their operational hours. Most establishments begin offering delivery services around the time they open for lunch or dinner, with the specific times varying. Delivery typically continues until closing time. It is advisable to check the specific hours of operation for each restaurant, as they can change based on the day of the week or special events.

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Factors Influencing Delivery Times

Several factors can influence the estimated delivery time provided by Utica Chinese food restaurants. It’s important to be aware of these factors to manage expectations and plan accordingly.

Order Volume: Peak hours, such as dinner time on weekends, often lead to longer wait times due to increased order volume.
Restaurant Location: Restaurants further away from the delivery address might require more time to complete the delivery.
Traffic Conditions: Heavy traffic, especially during rush hour, can significantly impact delivery times.
Weather Conditions: Inclement weather, such as heavy rain or snow, can cause delays due to difficult driving conditions.
Staffing Levels: The number of delivery drivers available can affect the speed of delivery.
Order Complexity: Complex or large orders may take longer to prepare and package, thereby extending the delivery time.
Special Events: Events, such as local festivals or concerts, can lead to increased demand and potential delays.

Delivery times are estimates, and it’s wise to factor in potential delays. Checking for real-time updates on order status, when available, can provide valuable insights.

Tips for a Positive Delivery Experience

Ensuring a pleasant Chinese food delivery experience involves proactive measures from the moment you place your order until the food arrives at your doorstep. By following some simple guidelines, you can minimize potential issues and maximize your enjoyment of your meal. This section provides practical advice on how to achieve a smooth and satisfying delivery experience.

Preparing for Delivery

Proper preparation before the delivery driver arrives can significantly improve the overall experience. This includes making it easier for the driver to find your location and ensuring a swift handover of the food.

Provide Clear Instructions: When placing your order, be as specific as possible about your address and any special delivery instructions. This is particularly important if you live in an apartment complex, have a gate, or have specific directions to your door. For example, instead of just saying “Apartment 101,” add “Go through the main entrance, take the elevator to the first floor, and my apartment is on the left.”
Be Available and Accessible: Keep your phone nearby and answer it promptly if the driver calls. If you anticipate being unavailable at the time of delivery, consider asking a neighbor to accept the order or rescheduling the delivery if possible.
Clear the Path: Ensure that the path to your door is clear of any obstacles, such as snow, ice, or clutter. This is not only for the driver’s safety but also to prevent any accidental spills or delays.
Have Payment Ready: Have your payment method prepared in advance. If paying with cash, have the correct amount or small bills readily available to avoid delays. If paying by card, ensure your card is accessible and ready for the transaction.

Addressing Order Issues and Delivery Problems

Despite best efforts, issues can sometimes arise. Knowing how to address these problems effectively can help you get a resolution and still enjoy your meal.

Inspect Your Order Immediately: Upon receiving your order, take a moment to check that all items are present and that there are no obvious issues like spills or incorrect dishes.
Contact the Restaurant Promptly: If you notice any problems with your order, such as missing items, incorrect dishes, or food that is not prepared as expected, contact the restaurant immediately. Most restaurants are willing to rectify errors, often by offering a refund, a replacement dish, or a discount on a future order.
Document the Issue: If possible, take photos of any issues with your order, such as incorrect items or damaged packaging. This can be helpful when communicating with the restaurant or the delivery service.
Contact the Delivery Service: If the issue relates to the delivery service, such as delays, unprofessional conduct from the driver, or problems with the app, contact the delivery service directly. They may offer a refund, a credit, or take disciplinary action against the driver.

Tipping Delivery Drivers Appropriately

Tipping is a standard practice in the food delivery industry, and it’s an important way to show appreciation for the driver’s service. The tip amount can vary based on factors like the distance traveled, the weather conditions, and the complexity of the order.

Consider Industry Standards: A standard tip for delivery drivers is typically between 15% and 20% of the total bill. However, this is just a guideline, and you can adjust the tip based on your experience.
Factor in Distance and Weather: Drivers who travel long distances or deliver in adverse weather conditions, such as heavy rain or snow, often deserve a higher tip.
Assess the Service Quality: If the driver provides excellent service, such as being prompt, courteous, and ensuring the food arrives in good condition, consider tipping on the higher end of the scale.
Use the Delivery App: Most delivery apps provide a tipping option, which is often the easiest and most convenient way to tip your driver. You can typically add a tip before or after the delivery.
Cash Tipping: If you are paying in cash, you can tip the driver directly. Ensure you have some cash on hand, particularly if you are paying with a large bill.

Comparing Restaurant Attributes

The landscape of Utica Chinese food delivery offers a diverse range of options, each with its unique strengths. Understanding these differences can help diners make informed choices. This section focuses on comparing restaurants based on key attributes such as price, menu variety, and customer satisfaction, along with exploring specific regional cuisine specializations and the ease of finding restaurants that meet specific dietary needs and payment preferences.

Restaurant Attribute Comparison

Evaluating different restaurants necessitates a comparative analysis of their key features. The table below provides a snapshot comparison of select Utica Chinese food delivery restaurants, considering price range, menu variety, and customer ratings. Note that customer ratings can fluctuate and are based on publicly available information.

Restaurant Name	Price Range	Menu Variety	Customer Rating (Example)
Example Restaurant A	$$ (Moderate)	Extensive – Covers many dishes	4.2 stars (based on a sample of 100 reviews)
Example Restaurant B	$ (Budget-friendly)	Focused – Primarily classic dishes	3.8 stars (based on a sample of 75 reviews)
Example Restaurant C	$$$ (Premium)	Specialized – Focus on authentic dishes	4.5 stars (based on a sample of 120 reviews)
Example Restaurant D	$$ (Moderate)	Moderate – Balanced selection	4.0 stars (based on a sample of 90 reviews)

Examples of Restaurants Specializing in Regional Cuisines, Utica chinese food delivery

Some Utica Chinese food delivery restaurants specialize in specific regional cuisines, offering a more authentic dining experience. These specializations allow diners to explore the diverse flavors of China.

Sichuan Cuisine: Known for its bold and spicy flavors, Sichuan cuisine often incorporates chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns. Restaurants specializing in this cuisine might offer dishes like Mapo Tofu, Kung Pao Chicken, and Dan Dan Noodles.
Cantonese Cuisine: Cantonese cuisine emphasizes fresh ingredients and balanced flavors. Typical dishes include dim sum, sweet and sour pork, and various seafood preparations.
Northern Chinese Cuisine: This cuisine often features wheat-based dishes like dumplings and noodles, along with savory stews and braised meats.

Finding Restaurants with Specific Features

Navigating the online ordering landscape to find restaurants with specific features requires a strategic approach. This involves utilizing various online platforms and employing specific search criteria.

Online Ordering: Many platforms offer online ordering. Check the restaurant’s website directly, or use popular delivery services like Grubhub, DoorDash, or Uber Eats. These services typically have filters to identify restaurants offering online ordering.
Dietary Options: Look for restaurants that explicitly mention dietary options on their menus. Search for s such as “vegetarian,” “vegan,” “gluten-free,” or “low-sodium” on the restaurant’s website or delivery platform. Some platforms allow filtering by dietary restrictions. For instance, a restaurant might highlight a specific section of its menu dedicated to vegetarian dishes.
Payment Methods: Most restaurants accept credit cards. Check the restaurant’s website or the delivery platform to confirm the accepted payment methods, which may include credit cards, debit cards, and sometimes digital wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay. Some restaurants may also accept cash on delivery, though this is becoming less common.

Illustrations & Visual Content

Visual elements are crucial in attracting customers and enhancing the overall delivery experience. High-quality images and descriptive narratives can significantly influence a customer’s decision-making process, providing a tantalizing glimpse of the food and creating a positive anticipation. The presentation of the food, packaging, and the interaction between the delivery driver and the customer all contribute to the visual narrative.

Visually Appealing Chinese Food Delivery Scene

Imagine a typical evening in Utica. Rain gently patters against the window as the aroma of Chinese food fills the air. The scene unfolds as the delivery person, clad in a clean uniform bearing the restaurant’s logo, approaches a well-lit front door. The delivery bag, insulated and clean, hints at the warmth within.Inside, the food is beautifully presented. Each container is carefully arranged, preventing spills and maintaining the dish’s integrity.

Steaming dumplings sit neatly in a partitioned container, their translucent wrappers revealing the savory filling. The General Tso’s chicken gleams with a rich, reddish-brown glaze, the perfectly fried pieces arranged attractively alongside a bed of crisp broccoli florets. A container of fragrant white rice completes the picture. The packaging itself is thoughtfully designed, perhaps featuring the restaurant’s logo and a subtle design element that reflects the cuisine’s cultural heritage.

The overall ambiance is one of warmth, freshness, and anticipation, promising a delicious and satisfying meal.

Dish Presentation: General Tso’s Chicken

General Tso’s chicken is a staple in many Utica Chinese restaurants, and its visual appeal is a key factor in its popularity.The dish typically features:

Chicken: Bite-sized pieces of chicken, deep-fried to a golden crisp, are coated in a sweet and slightly spicy sauce. The exterior should be crunchy, while the interior remains tender and juicy.
Sauce: The sauce is a vibrant reddish-brown, glossy from the perfect balance of sweetness, sourness, and a hint of chili heat. The sauce’s viscosity is crucial, ensuring it clings to the chicken without making it soggy.
Vegetables: Crisp, bright green broccoli florets often accompany the chicken, providing a contrasting texture and color.
Presentation: The chicken and broccoli are usually arranged in an appealing manner, perhaps artfully piled in a container or presented on a bed of rice. The container is clean, and the arrangement suggests care and attention to detail.

The visual impact of the dish is enhanced by the contrast of colors, textures, and the inviting aroma. The glistening sauce, the golden-brown chicken, and the vibrant green broccoli create a feast for the eyes, promising a delightful culinary experience.

Delivery Driver and Customer Interaction

The delivery driver’s professionalism and demeanor significantly influence the customer’s overall impression.From the Delivery Driver’s Perspective:The driver approaches the customer’s door with a smile. They hold the insulated delivery bag securely, ensuring the food remains warm. Upon reaching the door, the driver greets the customer politely, perhaps with a simple “Hello, your order from [Restaurant Name] is here!” They confirm the order details and payment method, maintaining a friendly and efficient demeanor.

The driver’s uniform is clean, and they present themselves in a professional manner. They thank the customer and wish them a pleasant evening.From the Customer’s Perspective:The customer opens the door to a friendly and efficient delivery person. The food arrives promptly and is presented neatly in the delivery bag. The customer appreciates the driver’s courtesy and professionalism. The aroma of the food is enticing, heightening their anticipation.

The customer receives their order and is pleased with the overall experience. The packaging is clean and well-designed. The customer’s first impression of the restaurant is positive, making them more likely to order again. The entire interaction is quick, efficient, and leaves the customer feeling valued.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Utica Chinese food delivery provides a vibrant and accessible culinary experience. By understanding the options available, from restaurant choices to ordering processes, customers can enjoy a seamless and satisfying meal. This guide serves as a comprehensive resource for anyone looking to explore the delicious world of Chinese food delivery in Utica, ensuring a positive and enjoyable experience with every order.

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