My family and I celebrated my granddaughter's birthday at this restaurant. The experience was great from making reservations to arrival. Great service and great food! I also enjoyed the music variety. It was nice hearing songs from various generations. It was worth the hour drive. You will need to find a park (it's the north side). I look forward to visiting again soon! read more

I want to start by saying this restaurant is SO GOOD! The service was good, and I really liked the bar tender. I sat at the bar. The restaurant is decorated beautifully. It's very clean and modern. The food was amazing. I started off with a peach lemonade/tea drink that was very good. I cannot remember the name, but it was spirit free. Next, I got the collard green dip. This is a must try when you go. Its so cheesy and delicious. It was perfectly seasoned. For my entre, I got the smother pork chops. OMG I did not expect that food to be so good. IDK what they seasoned that gravy with, but it was fire. The porkchops were delicious, and I loved the seasoned rice that it came with. My only complaint was that the kitchen moved very slowly on the night that I went. It took forever for my food to come out; however, I will say the taste of the food made up for the how long it took to come out. read more

I was very excited to come to this restaurant. I made a reservation for a earlier time but was unaware that they offered happy hour. Front of the house staff was very nice and kind and I was seated right away. However once we ordered the wait time was so bad that my cousin had finished her appetizer and we waited an additional 30 minutes for my collard green dip which was very good by the way. Everything was served one at a time with long wait times in between. By the time I received my entree I was full. I took a few bites of the Chicken and Fish and everything else I took home. Literally as soon as happy hour was over everyone around us started receiving their food very fast. The food was ok a little salty (batter from the chicken, fish and tomatoes). In addition your staff Karen was not so kind and very forgetful of what we asked for. I know she seemed overwhelmed for the area that she had. Our sentiments were shared with the manager but that was it. The owner came by to check in but she just breezed by. I'm not sure that told her of our complaint but as fast as she went by asking was everything ok I dont feel like she would have been open to what we had to say. Overall it was ok, A few suggestions...and yes I would return because maybe today was an off day and everyone deserves a chance to get it right, During Happy Hour everyone should get the same level of service, and if a different menu is offered it should be offered to everyone upon arrival. Nothing is perfect and we understand that and gave grace by waiting and being patient. But these are some easy fixes and I look forward to seeing that on my next visit! read more

I had a serious Red Beans & Rice craving and Soul Prime filled the void. Jackie took my call and could not have been friendlier or more versed in the menu. She knew me by name when I walked in(side story)and that goes a long way in the restaurant game. Front of the house is beyond important. The RB&R were delicious and I will be back to work the rest of this menu. Matt Ward read more

An honor of Women's History Month I would like to recognize Chef Royce and Soul Prime restaurant. This is a great place for brunch or dinner. Check out their new schedule for brunch during the week. Great restaurant atmosphere is modern yet inviting and the staff is always very friendly. Great to see women excel, especially in the restaurant industry read more

Soul Prime - Fried Green Tomatoes NO CRAB - Soul Food Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Came on a Sunday morning around noon, food was amazing, collard green dip was so flavorful, next came a drink that's unpictured the Georgia peach tea was refreshing and the perfect amount of sweet , ambiance is nice and bathrooms are nice, customer service was also great 9/10! read more

Soul Prime - Fried lobster Tail & Fries Fried Wings - Soul Food Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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We had a good time at Soul Prime; walked in on an early Sunday afternoon and was sat immediately. The seating was a little off, it felt like the chair was too high for the table... and I'm a shorty but no biggie! The food was amazing! Seasoned, full of flavor and a plated perfectly. We had the fish and grits and chicken and waffles! We ate all that we could! That fish and chicken was fried to perfection; not greasy or soggy! Truly enjoyed this meal and will return. read more

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Such a delicious meal with exceptional service! Standout dishes for me were the banana pudding (still thinking about this days after) corn bread muffins (moist and tasted like it just came out of the oven) and collard greens dip (could've eaten it with a fork- greens were so tender). We definitely over ordered for 2 people but I'd recommend and would come back to try other menu items. read more

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The food was so-so. Everyone's taste buds are different, so that's that. What I dislike is a mandatory 20% gratuity for subpar service. Cam was our server, he wasn't attentive at all. It was our 1st & last time. read more

Soul Prime - Unseasoned fried green tomatoes - Soul Food Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

This was one of my favorite meals of 2025. From start to finish, this was an excellent meal. The collard green dip is so unique and it was hearty and delicious. The fried green tomatoes with the crab. The firecracker shrimp. The short rib tacos. THE FRIED CHICKEN. Everything was seasoned perfectly. The food came out reasonably quick and the owner even came out to chat with us at the end of our meal. We showed up on a Wednesday evening and it was a quiet time. Definitely stop in here with your homies and share everything. Oh, and don't forget your banana pudding! read more

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So my decrease in stars is partly my fault because when I found out they only do their brunch menu on Sundays we should've left. The fried green tomatoes do not come with crab on top like they do during dinner. That was our second red flag we should have left. And the third one is when our waitress/bartender attempted to take our menus before even asking if we wanted to order anything else. So I did not have a taste for brunch at all but end up piecing together a meal so I had bought all sides. I ordered fried chicken wings, greens, and their breakfast potatoes. My friend ordered their beef short rib bowl without cheese and eggs. My friend didn't eat her bowl at all because aesthetically it looked like Alpo dog food. The breakfast potatoes were mushy definitely not what we thought the breakfast potatoes were going to come out looking like. I liked the flavor of the greens with cabbage in them but they also weren't aesthetically great. The fried chicken were fried very well I love that but no flavor. I did eat all the wings after putting hot sauce on them. I would never come back here for brunch. read more

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Very good! Nice establishment with good customer service right on the north side. We need more black owned spots cookin up soul food eats on the north side. I'm glad I stumbled in here for brunch. It's small and reservation is very necessary. I went with a group and we ordered a plethora of things. I ordered chicken and waffles and it was absolutely delicious. Chicken seasoned to perfection. I also tried my friend's dish and her greens and candied yams were bussin! The only thing I wish they had actual drinks like coffee! Very bizarre they didn't have that so I had to take a star off. I loved the owner came to each table to ask how was the food and service, amazing. You don't get that at places. I'll for sure come back! I hear they have a killer happy hour and their fried rice is awesome! I'll come back to try that! read more

Just go okay. Try to make the happy hour if you can, but run!!! I've gone twice, once for dinner and once for happy hour. Both times were great. Food: - shortrib tacos are bomb. Just everything I love about shortribs and I can tell that it's actually short ribs and not pot roast. On happy hour menu as well - Fried green tomatoes with crabmeat, sooo good - bbq wings were really good and are on happy hour menu - Baked chicken with grits were outstanding! Taste like a big ole hug. Beyond google - fried chicken was good according to my son. There was a little snag, but they fixed it right away - Fried catfish and grits. This was good too. The grits are wonderful. Drinks: - The Foyer was great and on happy he menu - Lemonade was good Ambiance: - Extremely cute and clean. Love the decor FYI, parking sucks in Lincoln park. Just be prepared for that. Lol. However, it's worth the hassle. read more

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Was really good food nice owner and better service this time really enjoyed it ill be back read more

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Food was absolutely delicious. Service was very slow/ this needs severe improvement. Ambiance was clean and inviting. read more

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Had the short rib tacos, they are sick. They are fire off the wall!!! service was amazing and I brought the fried chicken home for my husband and he said it was the best fried chicken he's ever had and I am a chef! and he never seen macaroni and cheese that butter would be oozing out of the bottom of!! read more

Some friends and I decided to visit Soul Prime Chicago after seeing a play at the theater down the street. I made reservations and when we arrived our table was ready. The location is a lot smaller than what I thought I would have been but was worth it. We were seated and greeted by our waitress. They were playing some good music. We decided to try a few things for appetizers to share as it was 4 of us. We tried Short Rib Tacos, Signature Collard Green dip, and Fried Green Tomatoes. I ordered the Fried Catfish, with Mac & Cheese, and Sweet Potatoes. Greens are not something I enjoy most times but the collard green dip was very good. The Short Rib Tacos were good I could have used some sour cream but overall they were good. I did not try the Fried Green Tomatoes as I really don't like tomatoes. My Fish was fried to perfection and seasoned very well. The Mac & Cheese and sweet potatoes were great. We sat an ate and were enjoying each other company and were told that another party was there for the table. I understand this is a smaller location. Just know that this isn't a place where you can sit and catch. Overall the Food, Ambiance, and Service were great and the price was average. There are a few other food items I would like to try so I will be back. read more

Soul Prime - Catfish - Soul Food Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Keith Lee and the chef's beautiful testimony of triumph brought me here. It was on my list of places to try for over a year. When I finally got the chance to go in, it did not disappoint. In fact, my expectations were exceeded. Let me start by saying the decor and ambiance is beautiful. From the moment you walk in, a vibe is set for you. I had the short rib tacos and garlic parmesan wings. Both were exceptional. The garlic wings had a burst of flavor that made me want to dance in my seat..and I probably did looking back! Before I left, the chef and owner (known as Chef Royce) came out and greeted my guest and I in a way that made us feel like old friends. She was so kind and that left a lasting impression on me. So please patronize this restaurant for its food and for its heart beating through from Chef Royce. read more

Soul Prime - Chef Royce - Soul Food Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Soul Prime Chicago lived up to the rave reviews! We visited the restaurant on a girls trip this Summer. Location 5/5 was accessible, convenient side street parking, and laid back atmosphere on a that good Sunday morning. Ambiance: 4/5 Beautiful space, bar area, seating and color scheme was too cute. Very Instagram worthy. lol. Music and everything made for an easy Sunday brunch. Food/ Drinks/ Price 4/5 Everything was reasonably priced, I ordered Catfish and grits and a Jamaican inspired drink. The other participants ordered Chicken & waffles (which were oh so fluffy), pork chop and colorful flowers for garnished drinks. They had a great hot sauce which they were selling as well. one of the ladies purchased some. Service 5/5 Great staff, personable, helpful for recommendations for drinks and meals. Overall 5/5 Absolutely no complaints, will definitely return. read more

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Frustrated Experience with Hours A friend recommended Soul Prime, and I had been looking forward to finally trying it. After putting it off for weeks, we planned to go on a Monday, only to find out they are closed that day. No problem -- we rescheduled for Tuesday. We even drove through a thunderstorm, excited to finally check them out for happy hour, only to find the restaurant closed again. The hours were clearly posted on the door, and the website even stated the restaurant was currently open. We weren't the only ones who showed up disappointed and confused. From the outside, the restaurant looks beautiful, and the menu online -- especially the mac and cheese -- had us excited. But here's the truth: beautiful branding means nothing if customers can't actually get in. read more

Soul Prime - The front of the restaurant - Soul Food Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I think a couple of reviewers mentioned they were either forgotten about, or waited to be acknowledged, same experience with us - both at the door and at the table. That said, the food that we received was delicious, and the staff went out of their way to make it an amazing experience for us (we were celebrating an event), so that helped make up for the earlier stuff. Will definitely be back. read more

Soul Prime is such a vibe--a real gem in Chicago. I'd heard great things about it, so I made the trip in from the suburbs to celebrate my friend's birthday. The restaurant is on the smaller side but feels cozy, with stylish decor that sets a relaxed mood. One of the best parts was the owner coming over to our table and chatting with us like old friends. She was genuinely welcoming, which really added to the experience. I ordered the short rib tacos and the collard green dip--both were flavorful and delicious. My friend got the 290 Combo, and the fish and chicken were fresh. It could have used a bit more seasoning, but it was still very tasty overall. I'd definitely recommend Soul Prime and look forward to coming back again. read more

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My family and I were excited to visit Soul Prime after Keith Lee reviewed this restaurant. We order fries, fried green tomatoes with no crab, and collard green dip. I thought the collard green dip was salty and missing something. We ordered two servings of fried chicken, fish, and shrimp. With our entrees, we ordered yams, mac & cheese, and a side of cornbread. The service was excellent. The owner was walking around greeting the customers. The only issue I had was the automatic 22% charge on the bill. Norway on the menu or inside the restaurant, they explained we would have this charge. We assumed it was for the tip. One other thing is that reservations have a time limit. The waitrss ask us if we wanted desert I ordered the banana pudding. After waiting time, we inquired about the desert. She eventually brought it back in a to go container. I wanted to share some with my friends. She explained that the other party was here and that they needed to clean up for the next reservation. She left the check on the table and went to help other customers. We realized she wasn't coming back for the payment as she did with the other customers. We went in front and paid at the bar. I wish they would have some time limit disclaimer for customers. read more

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The ambiance is okay, pretty small restaurant , all I can say is everything is overpriced on tha menu and I am sure its because of the location and the rent. I wasnt disappointed that most everything (entrees) didn't come with side (a" la carte)! The service was terrible, the waitress was all over the place , it was not a good experience, I will not go back! And might zi afd even though it was happy time (we didn't know) the waitress never even offered let us know,the o ly reason we found out why our food was taking so long, it was because they was taking care of the customers mainly at the bar! It was just okay a little too salty,and definitely overpriced AGAIN read more

I went to this location this evening after seeing a review on TikTok. The person who did the review must have been there on opening night because tonight was horrible. Let's start at the beginning. The ambience is... there really isn't one! You walk in and the bar is to your left the area where the bar is is larger than the actual restaurant itself. I was seated at a table for two, which, if they brought the food out, we probably would've had to juggle things as they came to the table. I've included a picture. I was seated at the table and a waiter did not approach me and ask me if I wanted anything for 10 minutes. The person pouring water came to my table more than the server. After waiting for my party to arrive and being told, she would not be able to make it. I decided to leave but get takeout. I went to the front and asked for a menu, which I never received, but they kept asking me what I wanted to eat Being my first time I wouldn't know what they served without a menu still waiting to receive one. I asked, because I had seen on their website that they served short ribs, which was basically what I went there for I was told they didn't have any. I asked what other meats they had. I ordered fried and baked chicken with the sides of mac & cheese, greens, and candied yams. I made an inquiry about the desserts and was told that they sold banana pudding and sweet potato pie. When I requested the sweet potato pie I was told they didn't have any; guess they weren't expecting patrons today. I placed my order at 1 PM. I paid and was told my bill was $160 for the items I mentioned above. While standing there waiting for my order, I began to realize I never received a receipt so I approached the manager and asked for a receipt when it was printed my order totaled $133. I told her I gave the waiter $160 ; they had placed a $33 charge on my account because they said I was dining in but I'm taking out so they gave me the money back. Had I not said anything or realized that I had not received a receipt they would have kept the money. It's now 1:30PM, and I haven't received my order. It's 1:45 PM, I still haven't received my order. I go to the front and I'm told they're short in the kitchen. They were sending orders out to the people who were dining in, but there were two people, me and a couple waiting for takeout orders for almost an hour; however, I did see the manager take an order out to a car outside. While I'm standing there, waiting for my order almost an hour later I noticed the servers standing at the front drinking and eating in front of patrons in the front instead of using discretion and stepping into the kitchen or at least out of the eyes of patrons. It is now 1:50 PM, at 2 PM I approached again and was told my order was coming. I went over to the other couple that was waiting who had been waiting there probably longer than me and told them that I intended to write a review on my experience, ironically my food was served shortly after that comment. Now let's talk about the food. Pictures can be deceiving. Nothing tasted good except for the baked chicken and the grits. The honey chicken was bland and very pricey and just rendered a hint of honey, the candy yams look more like soup than candied yams it looked like something from the bottom of the candied yam pot that they gave me, the greens were bitter, and the mac & cheese had no flavor; it just had a lot of cheese in it. You can see the pricing for everything. It seems like something would have been good out of the exorbitant prices that they charge. The thing that bothered me the most was the fact that after staying there waiting for food for over an hour and 10 minutes, and although they apologized for the delay, there was no inkling of customer satisfaction recovery. There was no offer of a free dessert or to take some of the money off of my bill. As I was leaving the gentleman of the other couple that was standing there asked me if that was the first time I had been there and my reply was, "Yes, and my last." The best part of this experience was leaving and knowing that I will never return! The one star is for the gentleman who kept my water glass full. Take a chance if you dare! read more

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I am very disappointed. I checked the website to confirm that they were open. I drove an hour paid for parking to soul Prime to come to find out that they are were closed. I brought friend from out of town to have brunch at this wonderful place. So disappointing and embarrassing!! read more

The service was top notch. The staff was attentive, friendly, and very engaging. - 5 stars The food was delicious and the portion sizes were generous. HIGHLY recommend getting the Five Cheese Baked Mac, Collard Green Dip, and the Honey Cornbread Muffins. - 4 stars Will definitely be going back to Soul Prime. read more

Here's a polished and cohesive version: --- Okay, family, here's a new restaurant we tried--Sole Prime in downtown Chicago, Illinois. For appetizers, we had honey-glazed hot shrimp and a hot, cheesy collard green dip. The collard greens dip was surprisingly good--similar to a spinach dip, but served hot. The honey-glazed hot shrimp was also excellent. For the main course, we had chicken wings and catfish, while I had pork chops with a bacon chutney sauce--absolutely out of this world. Sides included macaroni and cheese, greens, and red beans and rice. Overall, the atmosphere, food, and service were great. I would definitely recommend it if you're in town. read more

I loved this place! I wish it was a bit bigger. I felt cramped but I will definitely be back to try more things on the menu! The owner is wonderful too by the way. I ate before eating anything I'm so sorry I don't have pics. Honestly anything you get here is a hit just get down there and try some thangsss. read more

Delivery/Take-Out Review Only- I still have not dined in at Soul Prime yet, but I've really enjoyed the delivery orders I've received from here so far. The mac and cheese from Soul Prime is outstanding! They use a five-cheese mixture that works well together and is baked to perfection. The mac and cheese at Soul Prime is part of my top 5 restaurant mac and cheeses in Chicago. The fried catfish is really good as a main dish. The honey cornbread muffins are tasty. I look forward to dining in and trying more menu options in the future. read more

Food was excellent. Flavorful. Easily could have shared our entrees. We both took half home. Catfish & grits was yummy. Great sauce. Short rib bowl was tasty but maybe a little too many ingredients. Would have preferred without the eggs. Service charge of 20%. My friend paid the bill and didn't think that was an automatic tip. She left more. I think it is an added tip. Pay attention! read more

This place is not anywhere that I will revisit. The waitress is really nice, but our food took an hour and a half to come out and when it did come out, each item came out separately. When I initially entered the restaurant, there was no host to lead me to my seat and when I was seated, it took about 30 minutes for the waitress to come to the table and give us water. And during the time of us waiting on our food, we did not get any updates until about maybe 30 minutes in. This is not somewhere that I will ever revisit. Overall we waited almost 1.5 hours for the entire meal the be served. Decent ambiance and very intimate. read more

Soul Prime - Spritz with due - Soul Food Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

What we ate: * Honey Cornbread * Fried Green tomatoes * Honey Fried Chicken * Mac & Cheese * Collard Green Dip When Keith Lee says eat you say how much!! We went to Soul Prime to see what the fuss was about and got met with PIPING hot food, attentive service and absolute jams playing over the speaker!! Of special note is the hot sauce they serviced with the tomatoes and chicken, whatever they put in that they should bottle and sell it!!! Next time I may have skipped on the tomatoes as they lacked a little flavor for me but a hard run it back on everything else!! 3.5/5 rounded up to 4 ! read more

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We got the short rib tacos and the truffle parmesan fries. The short rib was richly marinated. Service was great. We were checked up on consistently and our waitress was very sweet. We also got the chicken with the hot honey sauce. The chicken was very juicy and the golden fry added a great crunch. it was a bit empty when we came in but we also made reservations at 4:30. The AC was a bit distracting as it was a bit chillier w the air vent right above me but nothing to be too crazy about. I am not dying to come back but the food was solid and there were bigger portions. I do think the price was a littleeeee steep but overall, would recommend to others. Keep in mind they already add 20% no matter the party size but service was not an issue. read more

Soul Prime - Soul Food Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Amazing!! Wonderful service food fresh an hot from kitchen! Keith Lee did not lie about this one!! Very cozy! read more

I absolutely enjoyed my visit to Soul Prime. Everything was on point from the service to the food. I arrived 15 minutes prior to my reservation & my family appreciated that we were still seated early. The dining environment is small however, was cozy & comfortable. I couldn't help but to sing & dance a little bit while enjoying their 90s R&B soul throwback playlist that played in the dining area. The Fried Green Tomatoes & collard green dip are must have starters. Those Fried Green Tomatoes are fried & battered perfectly & topped with a lump crab meat enhancement. The collard Green dip served with fresh homemade tortilla chips was amazing. Hot, cheesy & creamy. These starters are both unmatched & a must have. My family was quiet as we dove into our main course which consisted of Hot, honey glazed Fried chicken, Catfish & fried pork chops. Hmmm so good. All of the food was well seasoned, made to order & arrived to my table hot, fresh & timely. In the restaurant world of soul food today, Soul Prime sits at the top spot. I've been tothe best of the best, but no one is throwin down in the kitchen servin' creative, southern style dishes like Chef Royce! If I have to choose where to get good authentic, fresh soul food, without a doubt, I'm headed to Soul Prime EVERY TIME!!! read more

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10/10 experience... from the service to the cleanliness. Please don't go here rushing and demanding because this is a black owned establishment and they take their time and care in delivering you an experience. Act accordingly, nothing that great is rushed. The staff that greets you is polite and profession from the phone to in person. The atmosphere is quaint, elegant and CLEAN. When I say the food is intentionally prepared and tasty. Yes. The service was awesome from the busboy to the chef awesome. I'm in love with my partner and cried at the table because this experience was amazing and top tier, really added to what we already have going, actually elevated it. Karen was awesome, awesome, awesome. She was knowledgeable about the menu and gave relevant recommendations based on our tastes. Excellent experience. read more

I had dinner with a friend after work here! We sat at a table facing a mirror. The interior is cool! Low lighting with the upscale feel. Entrees were huge satisfying portions. My steak frites could've been enough for two people. The meat tasted really good when it was hot but then tasted alright once it cooled down. The tacos were really good & saucy, but a bit salty. read more

Soul Prime - Soul Food Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Such a lovely spot. Staff (including chef) are so welcoming! I had a couple chicken wings (because of course) and the black and bleu salad. Chicken was so tasty and the salad was huge and delicious. It's a great restaurant and I can't wait to return. read more

Soul Prime - Black and bleu salad - Soul Food Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Them drinks though!!! Babbyyyy!!!!! Delicious!! Bartender definitely did his thang. They were so refreshing and pretty. Our hostess greeted us with a beautiful smile. Got us seated pretty quickly even though we had no reservations. Our waitress was nice also. The music was a whole vibe! I literally stole every song and made me a new playlist lol. Food was delicious!!! And definitely don't need to ask for salt or pepper. The dip was different... never thought to add cheese to my greens but glad they made it a thing. I wouldn't make it at home but will gladly eat it whenever I come here. The seasoning on them short ribs... crazy good!! Everything we ordered was tasty... I would say halfway through eating I had to stop because all of it together was just too much salt going on. Next time we visit I'll definitely stick to one meal.. maybe it won't become overpowering. read more

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