The right way to eat in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania
### A Culinary Tour of Bryn Mawr: Ten Destinations for the Discerning Foodie
Nestled along the storied Main Line, Bryn Mawr is often celebrated for its collegiate spirit and elegant, tree-lined avenues. But for those with an adventurous palate, this suburb reveals itself as a surprisingly vibrant mosaic of global flavors. From steaming bowls of ramen to meticulously rolled sushi, from fragrant Moroccan tagines to wood-fired pizzas, Bryn Mawr’s dining scene is a testament to both authentic tradition and creative fusion. Join me, your local guide, as we embark on a delicious expedition through ten standout eateries, exploring not just what to order, but the unique *experience* each place offers.
#### **1. Jin Ding Restaurant: The Art of Chinese Comfort**
**Location:** 1051 Conestoga Rd
Step through the doors of Jin Ding and you are greeted by the warm, familiar hum of a neighborhood institution. This isn’t about minimalist chic; it’s about hearty, reliable, and deeply satisfying Chinese cuisine that feels like a culinary hug. The atmosphere is unpretentious and welcoming, with the gentle clatter of woks from the kitchen promising good things to come.
**What to Order & The Experience:**
Start by embracing the classics done right. The **Crispy Orange Chicken** here is a masterclass in balance—tender chunks of chicken encased in a light, shatteringly crisp batter, then tossed in a glossy, tangy-sweet sauce that clings without sogginess. For something with more depth, the **Szechuan String Beans** are a must. Blistered in a searing hot wok with minced pork and a generous kick of dried chili, they are smoky, savory, and addictively spicy. Don’t overlook the **House Special Lo Mein**, a tangle of springy noodles wok-tossed with a medley of fresh vegetables and your choice of protein; it’s the ultimate comfort food. Dining here is about settling into a booth, sharing plates family-style, and leaving utterly content. It’s the kind of place you return to when you crave flavors that are bold, familiar, and executed with care.
#### **2. White House Tajine: A Moroccan Oasis**
**Location:** 1047 W Lancaster Ave
A few steps down Lancaster Ave transports you across the Mediterranean. White House Tajine is an intimate, jewel-box of a restaurant where the air is perfumed with cumin, saffron, and slow-cooked meats. Richly colored textiles and intricate lanterns adorn the space, creating an atmosphere that is both exotic and cozy, perfect for a leisurely, romantic dinner or a special gathering.
**What to Order & The Experience:**
The experience is inherently tied to the namesake vessel: the tagine. You simply must order the **Lamb Tagine with Prunes and Almonds**. The lamb, fall-apart tender after hours of gentle braising, is sublimely sweetened by soft prunes and honey, contrasted with the subtle bite of toasted almonds and the warm complexity of spices like ginger and cinnamon. It’s a symphony in a clay pot. Begin your meal with the **Briouats**—crispy, cigar-shaped phyllo pastries stuffed with seasoned chicken or seafood—and the **Moroccan Salad**, a refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs. For the full experience, finish with a pot of sweet **Mint Tea**, poured from a height into ornate glasses. Dining here is a ritual, a slow unwinding of flavors and conversation.
#### **3. Avalon Bistro: Modern American Elegance**
**Location:** 818 Lancaster Ave
Avalon Bistro is Bryn Mawr’s answer to sophisticated, contemporary dining. With its sleek bar, crisp white tablecloths, and soft lighting, it strikes a perfect balance between upscale and inviting. It’s the spot for a business lunch, a celebratory dinner, or a craft cocktail with friends. The service is polished, and the menu reflects a confident, seasonal approach to American cuisine.
**What to Order & The Experience:**
This is where you indulge in culinary craftsmanship. For starters, the **Seared Sea Scallops**, often served over a celery root purée with a brown butter caper sauce, are a revelation—perfectly caramelized on the outside, like butter within. Their **Avalon Burger**, featuring grass-fed beef, aged cheddar, and applewood-smoked bacon on a brioche bun, is arguably one of the best in the area. For a main, look to their daily fish special, perhaps a **Pan-Roasted Halibut** with seasonal accompaniments that showcase the kitchen’s focus on freshness. Pair your meal with a selection from their thoughtful wine list. The experience at Avalon is one of refined pleasure, where every detail, from the presentation to the flavor layers, is considered.
#### **4. Lilis Fresh Authentic Mexican: A Burst of Color and Flavor**
**Location:** 908 Conestoga Rd
Lilis is a vibrant splash of joy on Conestoga Road. Brightly painted walls, folk art, and the irresistible aroma of grilled meats and fresh cilantro announce this as the real deal. The energy is lively and familial, a place where you’re just as likely to see families digging into massive platters as students grabbing a quick, quality bite.
**What to Order & The Experience:**
Authenticity is the draw. You cannot go wrong with the **Al Pastor Tacos**. Marinated pork, slow-cooked on a vertical spit (*trompo*), is carved off, crisped on the plancha, and served on double corn tortillas with pineapple, onion, and cilantro. Each bite is a perfect mix of sweet, savory, and char. The **Molcajete** is a showstopper—a steaming volcanic stone bowl filled with grilled steak, chicken, shrimp, nopales, and chorizo, all simmering in a rich salsa. It’s dramatic, shareable, and deeply flavorful. For something lighter, the **Ceviche de Camarón** (shrimp ceviche) is bright and zingy. Wash it all down with a horchata or a tamarind Jarritos. Lilis is about unadulterated, hearty flavors served with genuine warmth.
#### **5. Otto By Polpo: Italian Soul, Modern Twist**
**Location:** 52 N Bryn Mawr Ave
Otto By Polpo brings a slice of rustic Italian charm to the heart of Bryn Mawr. Exposed brick, warm wood, and soft lighting create an atmosphere that is both chic and comforting. It feels like a neighborhood *trattoria* you’d find in a side street of Rome, buzzing with convivial energy. The focus is on shared plates (*polpo* means octopus, hinting at their small-plates ethos) and house-made pasta.
**What to Order & The Experience:**
Embrace the *aperitivo* spirit. Start with the **Polpo** (grilled octopus) itself, tender and smoky, served with potatoes and a bright salsa verde. The **Burrata** with seasonal accompaniments like heirloom tomatoes or roasted beets is creamy perfection. Then, move to pasta. The **Cacio e Pepe** is a deceptively simple testament to skill—just pecorino and black pepper emulsified into a silky, peppery sauce that clings to tonnarelli pasta. For a richer option, the **Pappardelle with Wild Boar Ragu** is robust and deeply satisfying. Save room for a glass of Amarone or a Negroni. Dining at Otto is a social, sensory experience, encouraging you to linger, share, and savor.
#### **6. Vic's Sushi Rosemont: An Edomae-Style Sanctuary**
**Location:** 1084 E Lancaster Ave
Vic’s is a sanctuary for sushi purists. The space is serene, minimalist, and focused on the artistry at the blonde wood sushi counter. This is where you come for an education in the subtle, refined flavors of traditional **Edomae-style sushi**, where the rice is seasoned with a red vinegar blend and the fish is treated with meticulous care.
**What to Order & The Experience:**
Trust the chef. The ultimate experience is the **Omakase** (chef’s choice). For around $75-$100, you embark on a curated journey of 12-15 pieces. You might experience the clean, sweet brine of **Hokkaido Scallop**, the rich, buttery texture of **Chutoro** (medium-fatty tuna), or the unique, custardy perfection of **Anago** (saltwater eel). If ordering à la carte, focus on nigiri. The **Madai** (Japanese sea bream) and **Kinmedai** (golden eye snapper) are revelations in subtle sweetness. The **Yellowtail with Jalapeño** offers a perfect modern bite of clean fat and gentle heat. This is not a rushed meal. It’s a contemplative, almost ceremonial dining experience where you appreciate the texture of the rice, the temperature of the fish, and the stroke of wasabi.
#### **7. Zesto Pizza and Grill: The Neighborhood Classic**
**Location:** 908 Conestoga Rd (shared plaza with Lilis)
Zesto is the quintessential, no-frills neighborhood joint. It’s bustling, straightforward, and has been serving satisfaction for decades. The vibe is casual and welcoming, with a constant stream of locals picking up pies, families enjoying dinner, and friends sharing a bucket of wings. It’s the culinary equivalent of your favorite well-worn sweater.
**What to Order & The Experience:**
This is about classic American-Italian fare done reliably well. The **Cheese Steak** is a local favorite—thinly sliced ribeye on a soft roll with your choice of cheese (provolone is canonical) and fried onions. Their **Buffalo Wings** are crispy, saucy, and consistently great. But the star is the pizza. Go for a simple **Margherita** to appreciate the quality of their tangy sauce and nicely charred crust, or indulge in a **White Pizza with Spinach and Garlic**. It’s not about gourmet ingredients; it’s about that perfect combination of gooey cheese, robust sauce, and a crust that has just the right chew. Zesto is comfort, consistency, and community on a plate.
#### **8. The Bakery House: A Mediterranean Morning Haven**
**Location:** 604 W Lancaster Ave
Follow the scent of freshly baked bread and brewing coffee to The Bakery House. This bright, airy café is a morning ritual for many. Display cases groan under the weight of flaky pastries, decadent cakes, and savory pies. It’s a place to read the paper, meet a friend, or grab a sublime breakfast on the go.
**What to Order & The Experience:**
Start your day like a king. The **Spinach and Feta Pie** (Spanakopita) is a must—layers of impossibly flaky phyllo encasing a savory, herbaceous filling. Their **Croissants** are buttery, laminated masterpieces, perfect plain or as a sandwich. For a heartier meal, the **Shakshuka**—eggs poached in a spiced tomato and pepper stew—is deeply flavorful and satisfying. Don’t leave without trying a **Knafeh** for dessert, a sweet cheese pastry soaked in rose-scented syrup. Pair anything with a strong Turkish coffee or a cappuccino. The experience is one of simple, high-quality pleasures, where every bite feels homemade and wholesome.
#### **9. Hajimaru Ramen: The Soul-Warming Bowl**
**Location:** 1011 W Lancaster Ave
Hajimaru Ramen is a cozy, modern noodle shop dedicated to the art of the bowl. The décor is simple and functional, with an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs meticulously assemble each order. The steam, the rhythmic boiling of broth, and the focused energy create an anticipatory atmosphere. This is where you come to be nourished, body and soul.
**What to Order & The Experience:**
You are here for the tonkotsu. The **Hakata Tonkotsu Ramen** is the flagship: a creamy, opaque, pork bone broth that has been simmered for hours until it reaches a profound depth of flavor. The thin, straight noodles have the perfect bite, and it’s topped with chashu pork, wood ear mushrooms, nori, and a marinated soft-boiled egg. For something different, the **Spicy Miso Ramen** adds a robust, fermented kick to a rich chicken and pork broth. Start with **Takoyaki** (octopus balls) or **Gyoza**, perfectly pan-fried with a crisp lace skirt. Slurping is not just allowed; it’s encouraged. The experience is immersive, warming, and deeply satisfying—a culinary hug in a bowl.
#### **10. Sun Valley Pizza and Catering: The Family-Run Staple**
**Location:** 602 Lancaster Ave
Sun Valley is a Bryn Mawr institution, a family-run operation that has been dishing out love via pizza and Italian classics for years. It’s unfussy, friendly, and radiates a sense of genuine hospitality. The dining room is cozy, and the take-out counter is always busy—a sure sign of local loyalty.
**What to Order & The Experience:**
This is your destination for a fantastic, straightforward pie. The **Sun Valley Special** pizza—loaded with pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, peppers, and onions—is a crowd-pleaser with a great balance of toppings and a nicely balanced sauce. Their **Chicken Parmesan** dinner, with a side of perfectly al dente spaghetti, is a generous portion of comfort food. For something unique, try a **Tomato Pie**—a focaccia-like crust topped with a thick layer of seasoned tomato sauce, a regional favorite. The experience is one of familiarity and generosity. The food is hearty, the servings are large, and you always leave feeling like part of the family.
### **The Flavor of a Town**
From the meticulous slices of fish at Vic’s to the hearty, steam-rising platters at White House Tajine, Bryn Mawr proves that great dining isn’t confined to city limits. It’s found in the dedication of family-run kitchens, the passion of immigrant chefs sharing their heritage, and the innovation of modern restaurateurs. Each of these ten spots offers more than a meal; they offer a story, a feeling, and a memorable taste of this community’s diverse culinary soul. So, pull up a chair, grab a fork (or chopsticks), and taste your way through Bryn Mawr—one unforgettable bite at a time.
Nestled along the storied Main Line, Bryn Mawr is often celebrated for its collegiate spirit and elegant, tree-lined avenues. But for those with an adventurous palate, this suburb reveals itself as a surprisingly vibrant mosaic of global flavors. From steaming bowls of ramen to meticulously rolled sushi, from fragrant Moroccan tagines to wood-fired pizzas, Bryn Mawr’s dining scene is a testament to both authentic tradition and creative fusion. Join me, your local guide, as we embark on a delicious expedition through ten standout eateries, exploring not just what to order, but the unique *experience* each place offers.
#### **1. Jin Ding Restaurant: The Art of Chinese Comfort**
**Location:** 1051 Conestoga Rd
Step through the doors of Jin Ding and you are greeted by the warm, familiar hum of a neighborhood institution. This isn’t about minimalist chic; it’s about hearty, reliable, and deeply satisfying Chinese cuisine that feels like a culinary hug. The atmosphere is unpretentious and welcoming, with the gentle clatter of woks from the kitchen promising good things to come.
**What to Order & The Experience:**
Start by embracing the classics done right. The **Crispy Orange Chicken** here is a masterclass in balance—tender chunks of chicken encased in a light, shatteringly crisp batter, then tossed in a glossy, tangy-sweet sauce that clings without sogginess. For something with more depth, the **Szechuan String Beans** are a must. Blistered in a searing hot wok with minced pork and a generous kick of dried chili, they are smoky, savory, and addictively spicy. Don’t overlook the **House Special Lo Mein**, a tangle of springy noodles wok-tossed with a medley of fresh vegetables and your choice of protein; it’s the ultimate comfort food. Dining here is about settling into a booth, sharing plates family-style, and leaving utterly content. It’s the kind of place you return to when you crave flavors that are bold, familiar, and executed with care.
#### **2. White House Tajine: A Moroccan Oasis**
**Location:** 1047 W Lancaster Ave
A few steps down Lancaster Ave transports you across the Mediterranean. White House Tajine is an intimate, jewel-box of a restaurant where the air is perfumed with cumin, saffron, and slow-cooked meats. Richly colored textiles and intricate lanterns adorn the space, creating an atmosphere that is both exotic and cozy, perfect for a leisurely, romantic dinner or a special gathering.
**What to Order & The Experience:**
The experience is inherently tied to the namesake vessel: the tagine. You simply must order the **Lamb Tagine with Prunes and Almonds**. The lamb, fall-apart tender after hours of gentle braising, is sublimely sweetened by soft prunes and honey, contrasted with the subtle bite of toasted almonds and the warm complexity of spices like ginger and cinnamon. It’s a symphony in a clay pot. Begin your meal with the **Briouats**—crispy, cigar-shaped phyllo pastries stuffed with seasoned chicken or seafood—and the **Moroccan Salad**, a refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs. For the full experience, finish with a pot of sweet **Mint Tea**, poured from a height into ornate glasses. Dining here is a ritual, a slow unwinding of flavors and conversation.
#### **3. Avalon Bistro: Modern American Elegance**
**Location:** 818 Lancaster Ave
Avalon Bistro is Bryn Mawr’s answer to sophisticated, contemporary dining. With its sleek bar, crisp white tablecloths, and soft lighting, it strikes a perfect balance between upscale and inviting. It’s the spot for a business lunch, a celebratory dinner, or a craft cocktail with friends. The service is polished, and the menu reflects a confident, seasonal approach to American cuisine.
**What to Order & The Experience:**
This is where you indulge in culinary craftsmanship. For starters, the **Seared Sea Scallops**, often served over a celery root purée with a brown butter caper sauce, are a revelation—perfectly caramelized on the outside, like butter within. Their **Avalon Burger**, featuring grass-fed beef, aged cheddar, and applewood-smoked bacon on a brioche bun, is arguably one of the best in the area. For a main, look to their daily fish special, perhaps a **Pan-Roasted Halibut** with seasonal accompaniments that showcase the kitchen’s focus on freshness. Pair your meal with a selection from their thoughtful wine list. The experience at Avalon is one of refined pleasure, where every detail, from the presentation to the flavor layers, is considered.
#### **4. Lilis Fresh Authentic Mexican: A Burst of Color and Flavor**
**Location:** 908 Conestoga Rd
Lilis is a vibrant splash of joy on Conestoga Road. Brightly painted walls, folk art, and the irresistible aroma of grilled meats and fresh cilantro announce this as the real deal. The energy is lively and familial, a place where you’re just as likely to see families digging into massive platters as students grabbing a quick, quality bite.
**What to Order & The Experience:**
Authenticity is the draw. You cannot go wrong with the **Al Pastor Tacos**. Marinated pork, slow-cooked on a vertical spit (*trompo*), is carved off, crisped on the plancha, and served on double corn tortillas with pineapple, onion, and cilantro. Each bite is a perfect mix of sweet, savory, and char. The **Molcajete** is a showstopper—a steaming volcanic stone bowl filled with grilled steak, chicken, shrimp, nopales, and chorizo, all simmering in a rich salsa. It’s dramatic, shareable, and deeply flavorful. For something lighter, the **Ceviche de Camarón** (shrimp ceviche) is bright and zingy. Wash it all down with a horchata or a tamarind Jarritos. Lilis is about unadulterated, hearty flavors served with genuine warmth.
#### **5. Otto By Polpo: Italian Soul, Modern Twist**
**Location:** 52 N Bryn Mawr Ave
Otto By Polpo brings a slice of rustic Italian charm to the heart of Bryn Mawr. Exposed brick, warm wood, and soft lighting create an atmosphere that is both chic and comforting. It feels like a neighborhood *trattoria* you’d find in a side street of Rome, buzzing with convivial energy. The focus is on shared plates (*polpo* means octopus, hinting at their small-plates ethos) and house-made pasta.
**What to Order & The Experience:**
Embrace the *aperitivo* spirit. Start with the **Polpo** (grilled octopus) itself, tender and smoky, served with potatoes and a bright salsa verde. The **Burrata** with seasonal accompaniments like heirloom tomatoes or roasted beets is creamy perfection. Then, move to pasta. The **Cacio e Pepe** is a deceptively simple testament to skill—just pecorino and black pepper emulsified into a silky, peppery sauce that clings to tonnarelli pasta. For a richer option, the **Pappardelle with Wild Boar Ragu** is robust and deeply satisfying. Save room for a glass of Amarone or a Negroni. Dining at Otto is a social, sensory experience, encouraging you to linger, share, and savor.
#### **6. Vic's Sushi Rosemont: An Edomae-Style Sanctuary**
**Location:** 1084 E Lancaster Ave
Vic’s is a sanctuary for sushi purists. The space is serene, minimalist, and focused on the artistry at the blonde wood sushi counter. This is where you come for an education in the subtle, refined flavors of traditional **Edomae-style sushi**, where the rice is seasoned with a red vinegar blend and the fish is treated with meticulous care.
**What to Order & The Experience:**
Trust the chef. The ultimate experience is the **Omakase** (chef’s choice). For around $75-$100, you embark on a curated journey of 12-15 pieces. You might experience the clean, sweet brine of **Hokkaido Scallop**, the rich, buttery texture of **Chutoro** (medium-fatty tuna), or the unique, custardy perfection of **Anago** (saltwater eel). If ordering à la carte, focus on nigiri. The **Madai** (Japanese sea bream) and **Kinmedai** (golden eye snapper) are revelations in subtle sweetness. The **Yellowtail with Jalapeño** offers a perfect modern bite of clean fat and gentle heat. This is not a rushed meal. It’s a contemplative, almost ceremonial dining experience where you appreciate the texture of the rice, the temperature of the fish, and the stroke of wasabi.
#### **7. Zesto Pizza and Grill: The Neighborhood Classic**
**Location:** 908 Conestoga Rd (shared plaza with Lilis)
Zesto is the quintessential, no-frills neighborhood joint. It’s bustling, straightforward, and has been serving satisfaction for decades. The vibe is casual and welcoming, with a constant stream of locals picking up pies, families enjoying dinner, and friends sharing a bucket of wings. It’s the culinary equivalent of your favorite well-worn sweater.
**What to Order & The Experience:**
This is about classic American-Italian fare done reliably well. The **Cheese Steak** is a local favorite—thinly sliced ribeye on a soft roll with your choice of cheese (provolone is canonical) and fried onions. Their **Buffalo Wings** are crispy, saucy, and consistently great. But the star is the pizza. Go for a simple **Margherita** to appreciate the quality of their tangy sauce and nicely charred crust, or indulge in a **White Pizza with Spinach and Garlic**. It’s not about gourmet ingredients; it’s about that perfect combination of gooey cheese, robust sauce, and a crust that has just the right chew. Zesto is comfort, consistency, and community on a plate.
#### **8. The Bakery House: A Mediterranean Morning Haven**
**Location:** 604 W Lancaster Ave
Follow the scent of freshly baked bread and brewing coffee to The Bakery House. This bright, airy café is a morning ritual for many. Display cases groan under the weight of flaky pastries, decadent cakes, and savory pies. It’s a place to read the paper, meet a friend, or grab a sublime breakfast on the go.
**What to Order & The Experience:**
Start your day like a king. The **Spinach and Feta Pie** (Spanakopita) is a must—layers of impossibly flaky phyllo encasing a savory, herbaceous filling. Their **Croissants** are buttery, laminated masterpieces, perfect plain or as a sandwich. For a heartier meal, the **Shakshuka**—eggs poached in a spiced tomato and pepper stew—is deeply flavorful and satisfying. Don’t leave without trying a **Knafeh** for dessert, a sweet cheese pastry soaked in rose-scented syrup. Pair anything with a strong Turkish coffee or a cappuccino. The experience is one of simple, high-quality pleasures, where every bite feels homemade and wholesome.
#### **9. Hajimaru Ramen: The Soul-Warming Bowl**
**Location:** 1011 W Lancaster Ave
Hajimaru Ramen is a cozy, modern noodle shop dedicated to the art of the bowl. The décor is simple and functional, with an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs meticulously assemble each order. The steam, the rhythmic boiling of broth, and the focused energy create an anticipatory atmosphere. This is where you come to be nourished, body and soul.
**What to Order & The Experience:**
You are here for the tonkotsu. The **Hakata Tonkotsu Ramen** is the flagship: a creamy, opaque, pork bone broth that has been simmered for hours until it reaches a profound depth of flavor. The thin, straight noodles have the perfect bite, and it’s topped with chashu pork, wood ear mushrooms, nori, and a marinated soft-boiled egg. For something different, the **Spicy Miso Ramen** adds a robust, fermented kick to a rich chicken and pork broth. Start with **Takoyaki** (octopus balls) or **Gyoza**, perfectly pan-fried with a crisp lace skirt. Slurping is not just allowed; it’s encouraged. The experience is immersive, warming, and deeply satisfying—a culinary hug in a bowl.
#### **10. Sun Valley Pizza and Catering: The Family-Run Staple**
**Location:** 602 Lancaster Ave
Sun Valley is a Bryn Mawr institution, a family-run operation that has been dishing out love via pizza and Italian classics for years. It’s unfussy, friendly, and radiates a sense of genuine hospitality. The dining room is cozy, and the take-out counter is always busy—a sure sign of local loyalty.
**What to Order & The Experience:**
This is your destination for a fantastic, straightforward pie. The **Sun Valley Special** pizza—loaded with pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, peppers, and onions—is a crowd-pleaser with a great balance of toppings and a nicely balanced sauce. Their **Chicken Parmesan** dinner, with a side of perfectly al dente spaghetti, is a generous portion of comfort food. For something unique, try a **Tomato Pie**—a focaccia-like crust topped with a thick layer of seasoned tomato sauce, a regional favorite. The experience is one of familiarity and generosity. The food is hearty, the servings are large, and you always leave feeling like part of the family.
### **The Flavor of a Town**
From the meticulous slices of fish at Vic’s to the hearty, steam-rising platters at White House Tajine, Bryn Mawr proves that great dining isn’t confined to city limits. It’s found in the dedication of family-run kitchens, the passion of immigrant chefs sharing their heritage, and the innovation of modern restaurateurs. Each of these ten spots offers more than a meal; they offer a story, a feeling, and a memorable taste of this community’s diverse culinary soul. So, pull up a chair, grab a fork (or chopsticks), and taste your way through Bryn Mawr—one unforgettable bite at a time.
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