Washington DC, United States: Acclaimed Desserts Restaurants

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Imagine ending a perfect night out with a decadent dessert that leaves a lasting impression. In Washington DC, you can turn this fantasy into reality at some of the city’s most acclaimed dessert restaurants.

From vibrant ube bread pudding to indulgent sundaes at two-Michelin-starred restaurants, the nation’s capital is a paradise for those with a sweet tooth. You’ll discover a diverse range of dessert options throughout the city, from luxurious treats to culturally-inspired creations.

This comprehensive guide will take you on a journey through DC’s vibrant neighborhoods, including Georgetown, Shaw, and Capitol Hill, to uncover the best dessert destinations. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, get ready to navigate the city’s thriving dessert landscape and satisfy your cravings.

The Sweet Side of the Capital

You’ll find that Washington DC’s dessert landscape is as varied as it is vibrant, with numerous top-notch options. The city’s diverse population has significantly influenced its desserts, resulting in a rich tapestry of traditional American classics and innovative international creations.

When dining out in DC, you can expect to find a wide range of sweet treats at its top restaurants. From colorful ube bread pudding to a sundae splurge at a two-Michelin-starred spot, there’s something for every dessert lover.

Why DC’s Dessert Scene Is Booming

Several factors contribute to the success of DC’s dessert scene. The influx of culinary talent has elevated the pastry game, with skilled chefs bringing techniques and inspirations from around the world.

As a result, many top restaurants now place equal emphasis on their dessert menus, recognizing that a memorable final course can define the entire dining experience.

The Sweet Side of the Capital

As you explore Washington DC’s dessert scene, you’ll discover a world of award-winning pastry chefs. The city’s dessert reputation is being elevated by talented individuals who have trained in culinary capitals like New York before bringing their expertise to DC’s restaurant scene.

The Rise of Award-Winning Pastry Chefs

The James Beard Foundation has recognized several DC pastry chefs, including Susan Bae, a 2025 finalist known for her innovative flavor combinations. These skilled professionals are pushing boundaries with creative approaches, incorporating unexpected ingredients and techniques that surprise and delight diners. As a result, the team behind the desserts is getting more recognition, giving these chefs more creative freedom.

What Makes a Dessert Restaurant “Acclaimed”

The term ‘acclaimed’ in the context of dessert restaurants refers to establishments that have received formal recognition from esteemed culinary institutions. These restaurants stand out due to their exceptional dessert offerings, often crafted by skilled pastry chefs.

James Beard Recognition and Michelin Stars

Recognition from the James Beard Foundation and Michelin Guide is a hallmark of acclaimed dessert restaurants. For instance, detail-oriented pastry chef and 2025 James Beard Award finalist Susan Bae creates innovative desserts like green curry sponge cake with fish sauce caramel. Such establishments maintain consistent excellence in their menu offerings, featuring signature items that attract diners.

• The term “acclaimed” often comes with formal recognition from prestigious culinary institutions.
• These honored establishments typically feature chefs who demonstrate exceptional creativity and technical skill.
• Michelin inspectors evaluate the complete dining experience, including how dessert menus complement the overall meal.
• James Beard recognition highlights chefs who innovate while honoring culinary traditions.
• Acclaimed restaurants maintain consistent excellence in their dessert programs.

What Makes a Dessert Restaurant “Acclaimed”

To be considered an acclaimed dessert restaurant in Washington DC, an establishment must impress both critics and locals alike. The perfect blend of critical acclaim and local popularity is key to a dessert restaurant’s success.

Local Favorites vs. Critical Darlings

While critical acclaim from major publications matters, you’ll discover that local popularity often plays an equally important role in establishing a restaurant’s dessert reputation. Some of DC’s most beloved dessert destinations have earned their status through word-of-mouth and loyal neighborhood followings rather than formal accolades.

• You’ll notice that social media has democratized the dessert scene, with photogenic creations like Green Almond Pantry’s almost flourless chocolate cake gaining fame through Instagram and TikTok.
• The most successful dessert programs often balance innovation with comfort, offering sophisticated takes on familiar favorites that appeal to both critics and everyday diners.
• Many acclaimed establishments have signature desserts that have remained on their menus for years, becoming part of the restaurant’s identity and drawing repeat visitors specifically for these sweet treats.

For instance, the “almost flourless” chocolate cake at a Georgetown Mediterranean cafe and market is a prime example. Made with Valrhona 70-percent chocolate, this cake is light yet decadent and just sweet enough. If you’re looking for a truly indulgent experience, consider ordering a whole cake in advance.

Washington DC, United States: Acclaimed Desserts Restaurants You Can’t Miss

Washington DC’s culinary scene is renowned for its desserts, with Georgetown leading the way. The district is home to numerous acclaimed dessert restaurants that have earned their reputations through consistent excellence and distinctive offerings.

How These Establishments Earned Their Sweet Reputation

These top dessert destinations feature dedicated pastry chefs who bring specialized expertise to their craft, creating desserts with perfect texture, balance, and flavor profiles. Many of these restaurants source premium ingredients, from single-origin chocolates to seasonal local fruits, elevating their dessert offerings beyond the ordinary.

The best dessert spots in DC understand the importance of the complete sensory experience, creating treats that are not only delicious but visually stunning and sometimes even interactive. For instance, some restaurants offer elaborate sundae stations or colorful ube bread pudding, making the dessert experience memorable.

By making everything in-house, from breads to ice creams, these acclaimed establishments demonstrate a commitment to quality that discerning diners appreciate. Whether you’re indulging in a decadent cake or savoring a unique flavor in a cozy room, these dessert restaurants are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Washington DC, United States: Acclaimed Desserts Restaurants You Can’t Miss

If you’re a dessert enthusiast, Washington DC’s Shaw neighborhood is a must-visit destination. The area is home to a variety of acclaimed dessert restaurants that offer unique and delicious treats. One such spot is Happy Ice Cream, where former Komi pastry chef Ben Brunner creates a daily rotation of innovative ice cream flavors.

Happy Ice Cream stands out with its creative combinations, such as olive oil gelato paired with a sweet-salty cocoa crumble made from three types of bittersweet chocolate and cocoa nibs. You can enjoy these treats on a sourdough cone or take a pint to go.

What Sets DC Desserts Apart from Other Cities

Washington DC’s dessert scene is distinct due to its blend of international influences, reflecting the city’s diverse population and diplomatic community. Many DC pastry chefs have trained in culinary capitals like New York, bringing their own approaches to the District.

The city’s desserts often feature regional ingredients and seasonal specialties, with unexpected flavor combinations and innovative presentations. From refined French pastry to Filipino-inspired sweets, DC’s dessert landscape is both sophisticated and accessible, offering a wide range of options to explore.

Michelin-Starred Restaurants with Extraordinary Desserts

When it comes to indulging in the sweet life, Washington D.C.’s Michelin-starred restaurants are the epitome of dessert perfection. You’ll be treated to an unforgettable experience that combines artistry with exquisite flavors.

Pineapple and Pearls: The Luxe Sundae Experience

Pineapple and Pearls, chef Aaron Silverman’s two-Michelin-starred Capitol Hill restaurant, offers one of DC’s most extravagant dessert experiences with its famous sundae station. The luxurious sundae features amaretto-soaked truffle ice cream and umami-enhanced whipped cream, along with unexpected savory elements like caviar. The $150-per-person price tag may seem steep, but it’s an unforgettable dessert adventure that pushes boundaries between sweet and savory.

The sundae station transforms dessert from a simple sweet ending into an interactive culinary event, complete with foie gras fat-infused cookies and colorful gummy bears that delight both the palate and the eye.

Michelin-Starred Restaurants with Extraordinary Desserts

In the heart of Washington DC, Michelin-starred restaurants are redefining the dessert experience. You’ll discover that these establishments offer more than just a meal; they provide an immersive culinary journey. At Jônt, Chef Ryan Ratino’s Michelin-starred restaurant, the focus on innovative desserts is evident.

Jônt: Contemporary Sweet Finales

Jônt offers a contemporary approach to sweet finales, with desserts that are as meticulously crafted as the savory courses. The dessert menu changes frequently, showcasing seasonal ingredients and innovative techniques. You’ll enjoy desserts featuring chocolate paired with unexpected elements and sophisticated sauces that elevate the entire experience.

The dining experience at Jônt culminates with a treasure box of mignardises, delicate petit fours that serve as a sweet sendoff. This attention to detail demonstrates the kitchen’s commitment to excellence. As you savor each bite, you’ll appreciate the careful handling of top-shelf ingredients in every course, including the decadent desserts.

Georgetown’s Premier Dessert Destinations

The charming neighborhood of Georgetown is home to some of the most exquisite dessert experiences in the city. You’ll find a range of sweet treats that showcase the area’s culinary creativity.

One standout destination is Lutèce, an award-winning French “neo-bistro” that boasts an exceptional desserts program. The newly named pastry chef, Ana Sofía Pino, has elevated the dessert offerings with seasonal delights such as rhubarb mousse and mango cake, alongside a honey semifreddo featuring 18-month Comté cheese.

Lutèce: Honey Semifreddo with Comté Cheese

At Lutèce, pastry chef Isabel Coss’s innovative approach shines through in the honey semifreddo, topped with generous shavings of nutty, 18-month-aged Comté cheese. This dessert masterfully bridges the gap between sweet and savory, creating a multi-dimensional experience. The combination of creamy semifreddo, crispy honeycomb candy, and aged cheese satisfies multiple cravings at once, making it a signature item that draws dessert enthusiasts from across the District and beyond, including many New York transplants.

Georgetown’s Premier Dessert Destinations

Baked & Wired is a beloved Georgetown bakery that’s more than just its famous cupcakes. While it’s renowned for its oversized, colorful cupcakes that draw long lines, you’ll discover that this institution offers much more than just these famous treats.

Baked & Wired: Beyond the Famous Cupcakes

The bakery’s OMG Bar is a sophisticated s’more in bar form, featuring a fat housemade marshmallow, perfectly bittersweet chocolate ganache, and a subtle streak of caramel on a buttery graham-cracker crust.

• The OMG Bar is a masterpiece, with its bar form making it a convenient dessert option.
• The attention to detail in every component, from the crust to the high-quality chocolate, is impressive.
• Baked & Wired maintains its popularity by consistently delivering exceptional quality across its entire menu.
• The bakery’s less-photographed items, often filled with cream, provide satisfying experiences.

You’ll appreciate the perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and nostalgic comfort in every bite, making Baked & Wired a must-visit destination for any dessert lover.

Shaw Neighborhood Sweet Spots

Indulge in the rich flavors of Shaw Neighborhood’s top-rated dessert shops. You’ll discover a variety of sweet treats that showcase expertly crafted pastries and cakes. One standout destination is Petite Cerise, a French bistro known for its viral-worthy stuffed circular croissants.

Petite Cerise: Viral-Worthy Stuffed Croissants

At Petite Cerise, Chef Jeremiah Langhorne’s creations are sure to impress. The executive pastry chef, Carmelo Gil, crafts stunning pastry items topped with torched meringue, hiding tangy pockets of yuzu curd and blueberry jam within the flaky layers. Some highlights include:

• Stuffed circular croissants that have gone viral on social media, delivering on flavor and texture.
• A rotating selection of seasonal cakes and pastries that blend classic French techniques with contemporary flavor combinations.
• The pistachio profiterole with vanilla cream and dark chocolate sauce, showcasing the kitchen’s commitment to excellence.

Shaw Neighborhood Sweet Spots

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In the heart of Shaw, Unconventional Diner offers a dessert experience like no other. Corporate pastry chef Kaity Mitchell transforms familiar desserts into extraordinary creations that complement chef David Deshaies’s elevated diner fare.

You’ll be wowed by the sky-high lemon meringue pie that takes a classic American dessert to new heights with a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. The restaurant’s luscious Basque burnt cheesecake has developed a devoted following for its caramelized exterior and creamy interior.

Unconventional Diner: Reimagined Classic Desserts

At Unconventional Diner, special occasion cakes like the rainbow layer cake created for World Pride demonstrate the kitchen’s commitment to both technical excellence and cultural relevance. If you visit the restaurant’s “glam Italian” sibling L’Ardente, don’t miss their famous tiramisu encased in a chocolate sphere – a theatrical presentation of this classic Italian dessert.

Capitol Hill’s Dessert Scene

If you’re on Capitol Hill, you shouldn’t miss the chance to try The Duck and the Peach’s seasonal pastry creations. This dreamy American staple, led by talented pastry chef Rochelle Cooper, is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth.

The Duck and the Peach: Seasonal Pastry Creations

The Duck and the Peach is renowned for its innovative desserts that change with the seasons. Currently, you can indulge in a strawberry-lemon bar featuring Thai basil, masago rice pearls, and strawberry jam. Summer also brings a rhubarb brown butter torte, with its delightful combination of brown butter cake, rhubarb compote, and lemon meringue.

In addition to these seasonal treats, The Duck and the Peach demonstrates its commitment to the community through special offerings like the pink triangle ice cream, available during Pride month, with proceeds going to support local LGBTQ groups through SMYAL.

Capitol Hill’s Dessert Scene

As you explore Capitol Hill, you’ll discover a dessert scene that’s as rich as it is diverse. One of the standout experiences is at Pineapple and Pearls, chef Aaron Silverman’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant.

Pineapple and Pearls: Two-Michelin-Star Sweets

The luxe sundae station here is a must-try, offering a wild smorgasbord of sweet treats. You’ll be treated to foie gras fat-infused cookies and amaretto-soaked truffle ice cream, topped with umami-fied whipped cream. This extravagant dessert experience is worth the $150-per-person price tag, thanks to its interactive nature and high-quality ingredients, including a dollop of whipped cream on top.

The combination of unexpected elements like caviar and the richness of the cream in the desserts makes for a truly unique experience. With its innovative approach to traditional desserts, Pineapple and Pearls is a bucket-list destination for serious dessert enthusiasts.

Mount Pleasant’s Sweet Treasures

Mount Pleasant is home to a treasure trove of sweet delights, with Ellē being a standout destination. This acclaimed all-day cafe attracts folks from all over D.C. to Mount Pleasant.

Ellē’s display case is filled with an assortment of mouth-watering desserts, including their best-selling goat cheese cheesecake, currently made with roasted strawberry and brown butter shortbread. The cream-cheese dough used in their guava turnovers turns rich and flaky when baked, spilling with guava jam at first bite.

Ellē: Guava Turnovers and Seasonal Specialties

Ellē has helped transform Mount Pleasant into a dessert destination, attracting visitors from across the District with its exceptional pastry program led by co-owner Lizzy Evelyn. You can also preorder from their elaborate collection of cakes for special occasions.

Mount Pleasant’s Sweet Treasures

Mount Pleasant is a haven for dessert lovers, offering a variety of sweet treats. This charming neighborhood is home to a diverse range of acclaimed dessert restaurants that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Purple Patch: Filipino-Inspired Desserts

Purple Patch, Mount Pleasant’s essential Filipino restaurant, is a must-visit for dessert enthusiasts. The restaurant’s signature ube bread pudding has gained celebrity status after being enjoyed by then-Vice President Kamala Harris. You’ll be delighted by the colorful dessert menu, which includes cups served with ube ice cream and frozen mango floats that highlight tropical fruit flavors.

The traditional halo-halo is a refreshing layered dessert featuring shaved ice topped with red mung beans, jackfruit, and other sweet ingredients. Chef-owner Patrice Cleary has also expanded her ube offerings to include vibrant purple soft-serve ice cream at her nearby Joia Burger, spreading Filipino dessert culture throughout the neighborhood.

Signature Desserts You Must Try in DC

The nation’s capital is a paradise for dessert lovers, with a variety of must-try sweets. Washington DC boasts an array of iconic desserts that have garnered widespread acclaim.

Iconic Cakes and Pastries

Among the city’s celebrated desserts are Katherine Thompson’s famed olive oil cake at Thompson Italian, which played a significant role in her 2020 James Beard nomination. This signature cake remains a staple not only in DC but also at her NYC alma mater, L’Artusi.

• Thompson Italian’s olive oil cake, known for its unique flavor profile combining high-end Southern Italian olive oil with Pennsylvania dairy.
• Green Almond Pantry’s “almost flourless” chocolate cake, made with Valrhona 70-percent chocolate, offering a perfect balance of richness and lightness.
• Rachel Sherriffe’s chocolate devil’s-food cake at Ellie Bird, layered with black-tea caramel and enrobed in chai buttercream, showcasing innovative flavor combinations.

These signature cakes have become destination desserts, drawing visitors to sample these sweet creations that define DC’s dessert landscape.

Signature Desserts You Must Try in DC

From classic vanilla to innovative olive oil gelato, DC’s ice cream artisans are redefining the dessert landscape. You’ll discover a world of unique flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

Award-Winning Ice Creams and Gelatos

DC has developed a sophisticated ice cream culture that’s hard to resist. At Happy Ice Cream, former Komi pastry chef Ben Brunner creates innovative flavors like olive oil gelato with chocolate crumble, combining high-end Southern Italian olive oil with Pennsylvania dairy.

The city’s ice cream artisans often incorporate unexpected elements, like the sweet-salty cocoa crumble made with three types of bittersweet chocolate that adds texture and depth to Happy Ice Cream’s creations. Many establishments offer unique serving vessels, from sourdough cones to apple cider doughnuts filled with Wisconsin-style frozen cream.

Cultural Fusion in DC’s Dessert Scene

Washington DC’s dessert scene is a melting pot of international flavors, with Asian-inspired creations taking center stage. At Moon Rabbit, pastry chef Susan Bae creates innovative desserts that blend traditional Asian flavors with modern twists. Her durian mousse is a standout, converting even skeptics of this pungent fruit.

The green curry sponge cake infused with pandan leaves and layered with whipped white chocolate and fresh lychee is another masterpiece. These desserts often incorporate tropical flavors and unexpected herbs, showcasing the technical skill of DC’s pastry chefs. Such creations would stand out even in a competitive dessert landscape like New York.

Asian-Inspired Sweet Creations

These Asian-inspired desserts are not just unique; they’re also expertly crafted with cream and other high-quality ingredients. The result is a dessert scene that’s both authentic and innovative, offering something new for every palate.

Cultural Fusion in DC’s Dessert Scene

You can experience the vibrant flavors of Latin America in the heart of Washington DC. The city’s dessert landscape has been significantly influenced by Latin American traditions, with several restaurants showcasing these bold and vibrant flavors.

Latin American Dessert Influences

Latin American dessert traditions have brought a new dimension to DC’s sweet scene. At José Andrés’ China Chilcano in Penn Quarter, you must try the suspiro limeña, an iconic Peruvian dessert featuring delicate meringue and bright passion fruit that creates a perfect sweet-tart balance.

The restaurant’s dessert menu also features Ponderaciones de Kiwicha, a crispy fried spiral cookie served with rich Peruvian chocolate cream and banana ice cream, demonstrating the diversity of Latin American sweet traditions. These desserts often incorporate tropical fruits, vanilla, and indigenous ingredients, creating distinctive flavor profiles.

Seasonal Dessert Offerings in the District

As summer arrives in Washington DC, the city’s acclaimed dessert restaurants burst with fresh, seasonal flavors. Talented pastry chefs like Rochelle Cooper at The Duck and the Peach on Capitol Hill create stunning desserts that showcase the season’s best fruits.

Summer brings an array of fruit-forward desserts, with chefs incorporating locally sourced fruits into their creations. You might find a strawberry-lemon bar with Thai basil and strawberry jam, or a rhubarb brown butter torte with lemon meringue. Many DC chefs have been influenced by culinary capitals like New York, but they apply these techniques to seasonal fruits for maximum flavor.

Summer Fruit Specialties

• Strawberry-lemon bars with unique ingredients like Thai basil and masago rice pearls.
• Rhubarb brown butter tortes featuring lemon meringue.
• Pink triangle ice cream, with proceeds sometimes donated to local causes.

Seasonal Dessert Offerings in the District

As the seasons change in Washington DC, the city’s dessert scene transforms to offer comforting treats. When temperatures drop, restaurants pivot to heartwarming desserts that provide comfort during the colder months.

Fall and Winter Comfort Desserts

During fall and winter, iconic desserts like Blue Duck Tavern’s famous apple pie for two become particularly appealing. This dessert features perfectly spiced fruit encased in flaky pastry, often served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Other establishments offer bread pudding, like Puddin’ at Union Market, with a standout brown-butter bourbon version. Warm sauce, such as gooey caramel or molten chocolate, adds to the coziness of these desserts.

Dessert Tasting Experiences and Special Occasions

When it comes to special occasions, Washington DC’s upscale restaurants are redefining the dessert experience. Several high-end establishments now offer dedicated dessert tasting experiences, allowing you to indulge in multiple sweet creations in one sitting.

These exclusive dessert tastings often feature wine pairings carefully selected to complement the sweet courses, creating a comprehensive sensory experience. At Rooster & Owl, culinary director Yuan Tang’s four-course tasting menu ($125) culminates in a sophisticated Key lime pavlova.

Restaurants Offering Dessert-Only Tasting Menus

Restaurant teams design these dessert-focused experiences to showcase their pastry department’s full range of techniques and creativity, often including items not available on the regular menu. This unique dining experience has become popular for special occasions, offering an alternative to traditional celebrations.

Dessert Tasting Experiences and Special Occasions

In the heart of Washington DC, you’ll discover extraordinary dessert experiences designed for special occasions. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or another milestone, the city’s top dessert spots offer something truly special.

At Gravitas, Chef Matt Baker creates sophisticated dessert finales like yuzu crémeux with pineapple ganache or an elevated Rocky Road featuring chocolate semifreddo with fried candied almonds. Many upscale restaurants offer special-order cakes that go far beyond typical bakery offerings, featuring premium ingredients and artistic decorations.

Special Occasion Dessert Experiences

Dessert bars and specialized dessert counters provide interactive experiences where you can watch pastry chefs prepare items like tableside pan cotta or flambéed desserts. These bar settings often incorporate theatrical elements that create memorable moments, perfect for making your celebration even sweeter.

Pastry Chefs Shaping DC’s Sweet Scene

DC’s dessert renaissance is led by innovative pastry chefs who bring diverse backgrounds and techniques to the capital’s sweet scene. These talented individuals are creating boundary-pushing desserts that are redefining the city’s culinary landscape.

One such chef is Susan Bae, a 2025 James Beard Award finalist at Moon Rabbit, known for her green curry sponge cake with fish sauce caramel. Many of DC’s top pastry talents, like Katherine Thompson, have trained in New York before bringing their expertise to the District.

Rising Stars and Masters

The collaborative nature of DC’s culinary community has fostered mentorship relationships that help develop the next generation of pastry stars. These chefs are elevating DC’s reputation as a serious dessert destination, creating signature items that draw national attention.

Pastry Chefs Shaping DC’s Sweet Scene

DC’s dessert landscape is being shaped by talented pastry chefs who are innovating and elevating the art of dessert-making. At the forefront of this movement are chefs like Kaity Mitchell, who is transforming familiar desserts into extraordinary creations at Unconventional Diner.

You’ll notice that many chefs are experimenting with unexpected ingredient combinations, like Susan Bae of Moon Rabbit, who incorporates fish sauce caramel and whipped cream with umami elements, creating a unique taste experience.

Innovative Techniques and Signature Styles

The use of modern technology and techniques alongside traditional methods is a hallmark of DC’s pastry scene. Chefs are utilizing tools like anti-griddles, freeze dryers, and specialized chocolate tempering equipment to create multi-sensory dessert experiences. For instance, L’Ardente’s tiramisu encased in a chocolate sphere is a showstopper, combining innovative techniques with classic flavors like tiramisu.

Conclusion: Satisfying Your Sweet Tooth in the Nation’s Capital

Whether you’re a foodie or just a lover of all things sweet, Washington DC’s dessert restaurants are sure to leave a lasting impression. The city’s dessert scene has evolved into a premier destination, offering some of the best desserts in the country across a diverse range of establishments.

You now have a comprehensive guide to navigating the capital’s sweet landscape, from Michelin-starred restaurants to neighborhood bakeries and specialty dessert shops. The city’s talented pastry professionals continue to push boundaries while honoring traditions, creating memorable final courses that leave lasting impressions, such as classic American apple pie or sophisticated pan cotta variations.

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The above is subject to change.

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