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{{Short description|Jungle-themed restaurant chain}}
{{Short description|Jungle-themed restaurant chain}}
{{Infobox company
{{Use mdy dates|date=September 2024}}{{Infobox company
| name = Rainforest Cafe
| name = Rainforest Cafe
| logo = RainforestCafeLogo.png
| logo = RainforestCafeLogo.png
| logo_size = 225px
| logo_size = 225px
| type = [[Subsidiary]]
| type = [[Subsidiary]]
| foundation = {{start date and age|1994|2|3}}, [[Bloomington, Minnesota]]
| foundation = {{start date and age|1994|2|3}}, [[Bloomington, Minnesota]]
| founder = [[Steven Schussler]]
| founder = [[Steven Schussler]]
| location_city = [[Houston, Texas]]
| location_city = [[Houston, Texas]]
| location_country = United States
| location_country = United States
| locations = 23 restaurants
| locations = 23 restaurants
| area_served = {{plainlist|
⚫
| key_people = [[Steven Schussler]], <small>Founder</small><br />[[Tilman J. Fertitta]] <small>Chairman, President, and Chief executive officer</small>
*Canada
⚫
| industry = Restaurants
*France
⚫
| products = Pasta, Seafood, Salad, Sandwiches, Dessert; Merchandise<ref name="Rainforest Cafe">{{cite web|title=Rainforest Cafe|url=http://www.landrysinc.com/concepts/familyDestinations/rainforest.asp|work=Landry's Inc.|publisher=Landry's Inc.|access-date=12 June 2012}}</ref>
*Japan
| parent = [[Landry's Restaurants]]
*Malta
⚫
| logo_caption = Restaurant logo (2000–present)
*United Arab Emirates
⚫
| homepage = {{url|rainforestcafe.com}}
*United States
}}
⚫
| key_people = [[Steven Schussler]], <small>Founder</small><br />[[Tilman J. Fertitta]] <small>Chairman, President, and Chief executive officer</small>
⚫
| industry = Restaurants
⚫
| products = Pasta, Seafood, Salad, Sandwiches, Dessert; Merchandise<ref name="Rainforest Cafe">{{Cite web |title=Rainforest Cafe |url=http://www.landrysinc.com/concepts/familyDestinations/rainforest.asp |access-date=12 June 2012 |website=Landry's Inc. }}</ref>
| parent = Independent (1994-2000)
[[Landry's Restaurants]] (2000-Present)
⚫
| logo_caption = Restaurant logo (2000–present)
⚫
| homepage = {{url|rainforestcafe.com}}
}}
}}
[[File:Rainforest-cafe-auburn-hills-michigan.jpg|thumb|A neon-sign welcomes visitors to Rainforest Cafe, located inside the [[Great Lakes Crossing Outlets]] shopping complex in [[Auburn Hills, Michigan]], on March 11, 2016.]]
[[File:Rainforest-cafe-auburn-hills-michigan.jpg|thumb|A neon-sign welcomes visitors to Rainforest Cafe, located inside the [[Great Lakes Crossing Outlets]] shopping complex in [[Auburn Hills, Michigan]], on March 11, 2016.]]
[[File:Rainforest Cafe, Las Vegas (2596973531).jpg|thumb|An example of the [[Canopy (biology)|canopy]] ceiling including artificial trees and [[foliage]] for the Rainforest Cafe at [[MGM Grand Las Vegas|MGM Grand Hotel and Casino]] in [[Las Vegas]], Nevada, on June 3, 2008.]]
[[File:Rainforest Cafe, Las Vegas (2596973531).jpg|thumb|An example of the [[Canopy (biology)|canopy]] ceiling including artificial trees and [[foliage]] for the Rainforest Cafe at [[MGM Grand Las Vegas|MGM Grand Hotel and Casino]] in [[Las Vegas]], Nevada, on June 3, 2008.]]


'''Rainforest Cafe''' is a jungle-[[Theme restaurant|themed restaurant]] chain owned by [[Landry's]], Inc., of [[Houston]]. The first location opened in the [[Mall of America]] in [[Bloomington, Minnesota]], on February 3, 1994. By 1997, the chain consisted of six restaurants, all in the United States. The first international location opened in London, England in June 1997. In 1998, it was planned to build 12 additional restaurants in the United States, seven in Mexico, and five in the UK, for a total of 22 restaurants by 2008.<ref name="riverwalkguide.com">{{cite web|title=Rainforest Cafe|url=http://www.riverwalkguide.com/rainforest-cafe/|work=The River Walk Guide|publisher=The San Antonio River Walk Guide|access-date=23 June 2012}}</ref>
'''Rainforest Cafe''' is a jungle-[[Theme restaurant|themed restaurant]] chain owned by [[Landry's]], Inc., of [[Houston]]. The first location opened in the [[Mall of America]] in [[Bloomington, Minnesota]], on February 3, 1994. By 1997, the chain consisted of six restaurants, all in the United States. The first international location opened in London, England in June 1997. In 1998, it was planned to build 12 additional restaurants in the United States, seven in Mexico, and five in the United Kingdom, for a total of 22 restaurants by 2008.<ref name="riverwalkguide.com">{{Cite web |title=Rainforest Cafe |url=http://www.riverwalkguide.com/rainforest-cafe/ |access-date=23 June 2012 |website=The River Walk Guide |publisher=The San Antonio River Walk Guide}}</ref>


In 2000, the Rainforest Cafe was bought by Landry's Restaurants Inc., a company specializing in dining, hospitality, entertainment, and gaming, based in Houston, Texas.<ref>{{cite web|title=Landry's, Inc – Finding Success on All Fronts|url=http://www.landrysinc.com/aboutUs/default.asp|work=Who We Are|publisher=Landry's Inc.|access-date=23 June 2012}}</ref> To date, the company owns restaurants in the United States, Canada, France, the United Arab Emirates, Japan, and Malta. Rainforest Cafe focuses on local tourism for a majority of their income.<ref name="riverwalkguide.com"/>
In 2000, the Rainforest Cafe was bought by Landry's Restaurants Inc., a company specializing in dining, hospitality, entertainment, and gaming, based in Houston, Texas.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Landry's, Inc – Finding Success on All Fronts |url=http://www.landrysinc.com/aboutUs/default.asp |access-date=23 June 2012 |website=Who We Are |publisher=Landry's Inc.}}</ref> To date, the company owns restaurants in the United States, Canada, France, the United Arab Emirates, Japan, and Malta. Rainforest Cafe focuses on local tourism for a majority of their income.<ref name="riverwalkguide.com" />


[[File:Rainforest Cafe Galveston Texas.JPG|thumb|right|Exterior of the Rainforest Cafe in [[Galveston, Texas]], on June 11, 2010.|200px]]
[[File:Rainforest Cafe Galveston Texas.JPG|thumb|right|Exterior of the Rainforest Cafe in [[Galveston, Texas]], on June 11, 2010.|200px]]
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==Design==
==Design==


Each Rainforest Cafe restaurant is designed to depict the atmosphere of a [[tropical rainforest]], including plant growth, fog machines, waterfalls, and rainforest animals. The ceiling and much of the walls are lined with artificial foliage, while lower areas and booth seating are decorated with faux rock. Brick textures suggest ancient ruins, and support pillars are made to look like tree trunks. Often, there is a waterfall with a fountain in the dining area, with a statue depicting [[Atlas (mythology)|Atlas]] holding up the Earth to communicate a conservation message. Paper Mache birds and butterflies are suspended from the trees, and other whimsical rainforest creatures are mounted, as though climbing on the walls or peeking through the foliage. The ceiling above the center of the dining room features a simulated starry night sky, designed and manufactured by Fiber Optic Systems Inc., located in [[Whitehouse Station, New Jersey]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Retail and Commercial Projects|url=http://www.fosi.com/Company/client.htm|work=Client List|publisher=Fiber Optic Systems, Inc.|access-date=17 June 2012}}</ref> The bar area is situated under a gigantic mushroom, partitioned from the rest of the restaurant by a rain curtain. The chain is known for its characteristic bar stools, made to resemble the legs of animals, designed and sculpted by the artist Glenn Carter.<ref>{{cite web|title=Bellevue sculptor goes down the rabbit hole|date=8 April 2015 |url=http://www.mtexpress.com/arts_and_events/arts/bellevue-sculptor-goes-down-the-rabbit-hole/article_515dacb8-dd69-11e4-8a41-1f58768821f0.html|publisher=Idaho Mountain Express|access-date=11 April 2015}}</ref> Fish tanks, also known as aquariums with [[reef fish|tropical reef fish]] are spread throughout the restaurant and the gift shop space. Periodically, a simulated thunderstorm will occur every few minutes, with strobe lights and thunder effects through subwoofers.
Each Rainforest Cafe restaurant is designed to depict the atmosphere of a [[tropical rainforest]], including fake plants, fog machines, waterfalls, and rainforest animals. The ceiling and much of the walls are lined with artificial foliage, while lower areas and booth seating are decorated with faux rock. Brick textures suggest ancient ruins, and support pillars are made to look like tree trunks. Often, there is a waterfall with a fountain in the dining area, with a statue depicting [[Atlas (mythology)|Atlas]] holding up the Earth to communicate a conservation message.
[[Papier-mâché]] birds and butterflies are suspended from the trees, and other whimsical rainforest creatures are mounted, as though climbing on the walls or peeking through the foliage. The ceiling above the center of the dining room features a simulated starry night sky, designed and manufactured by Fiber Optic Systems Inc., located in [[Whitehouse Station, New Jersey]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Retail and Commercial Projects |url=http://www.fosi.com/Company/client.htm |access-date=17 June 2012 |website=Client List |publisher=Fiber Optic Systems, Inc.}}</ref> The bar area is situated under a gigantic mushroom, partitioned from the rest of the restaurant by a rain curtain. The chain is known for its characteristic bar stools, made to resemble the legs of animals, designed and sculpted by the artist Glenn Carter.<ref>{{Cite news |date=8 April 2015 |title=Bellevue sculptor goes down the rabbit hole |url=http://www.mtexpress.com/arts_and_events/arts/bellevue-sculptor-goes-down-the-rabbit-hole/article_515dacb8-dd69-11e4-8a41-1f58768821f0.html |access-date=11 April 2015 |publisher=Idaho Mountain Express}}</ref> Fish tanks with [[reef fish|tropical reef fish]] are spread throughout the restaurant and the gift shop space. Periodically, a simulated [[thunderstorm]] will occur every few minutes, with [[strobe light]]s and thunder effects through subwoofers.


[[File:Disney Animal Kingdom Rainforest Cafe 1.jpg|thumb|right|Rainforest Cafe at [[Disney's Animal Kingdom]] in September 2002.]]
[[File:Disney Animal Kingdom Rainforest Cafe 1.jpg|thumb|right|Rainforest Cafe at [[Disney's Animal Kingdom]] in September 2002.]]


[[Animatronic]] animals are spread throughout the restaurant. These include [[butterflies]], [[African forest elephant|elephants]], [[western lowland gorilla|gorillas]], [[jaguar]]s, [[Bornean orangutan|orangutans]], [[chimpanzee]]s, [[monkey]]s and [[Bengal tiger|tiger]]s, though this will vary by location. The restaurant is laid out so that these animals are set off the ground and are largely above diners' heads, not only allowing them to be seen from farther away, but making them appear larger as well. A [[Nile crocodile|crocodile]] and a [[Burmese python|python]] are often located in the gift shop area to attract the attention of passersby. Tracy Tree, an animated tree face, sits inside the shop and provides rainforest facts. The animals are manufactured by Russells Creative, LLC, of [[Apopka, Florida]], formerly UCFab International.<ref>{{cite web|title=Furry Creatures |url=http://ucfab.com/animatronics/?category_name=furry-creatures |work=UCFab International |publisher=UCFab International, LLC |url-status=unfit |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130614204021/http://ucfab.com/animatronics/?category_name=furry-creatures |archive-date=June 14, 2013 }}</ref>
[[Animatronic]] animals are spread throughout the restaurant. These include [[butterflies]], [[elephant]]s, [[gorilla]]s, [[leopard]]s, [[orangutan]]s, [[chimpanzee]]s, [[macaw]]s, [[monkey]]s and [[tiger]]s, though this will vary by location. The restaurant is laid out so that these animals are set off the ground and are largely above diners' heads, not only allowing them to be seen from farther away, but making them appear larger as well. A [[crocodile]] and a [[Burmese Python|python]] are often located in the gift shop area to attract the attention of passersby. Tracy Tree, an animated tree face, sits inside the shop and provides rainforest facts. The animals are manufactured by Russells Creative, LLC, of [[Apopka, Florida]], formerly UCFab International.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Furry Creatures |url=http://ucfab.com/animatronics/?category_name=furry-creatures |url-status=unfit |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130614204021/http://ucfab.com/animatronics/?category_name=furry-creatures |archive-date=June 14, 2013 |website=UCFab International |publisher=UCFab International, LLC}}</ref>


A retail village is located in front of the dining area with an assortment of souvenirs that are rainforest-themed or are branded with the Rainforest Cafe logo, mostly printed by the Atlanta-based fashion apparel company Boxercraft Inc.<ref name=Cooper>{{cite web|last=Cooper|first=Janice|title=Rainforest Cafe - A Wild Experience|url=http://www.rateit.com/a/14-Rainforest-Cafe---A-Wild-Experience|work=RateIt|publisher=RateIt|access-date=17 June 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120223045259/http://www.rateit.com/a/14-Rainforest-Cafe---A-Wild-Experience|archive-date=23 February 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> A small water feature with the animatronic [[crocodile]] (A [[hippo]] in Nashville) is located just outside the shop, in which visitors are invited to toss coins.
A retail village is located in front of the dining area with an assortment of souvenirs that are rainforest-themed or are branded with the Rainforest Cafe logo, mostly printed by the Atlanta-based fashion apparel company Boxercraft Inc.<ref name="Cooper">{{Cite web |last=Cooper |first=Janice |title=Rainforest Cafe - A Wild Experience |url=http://www.rateit.com/a/14-Rainforest-Cafe---A-Wild-Experience |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120223045259/http://www.rateit.com/a/14-Rainforest-Cafe---A-Wild-Experience |archive-date=23 February 2012 |access-date=17 June 2012 |website=RateIt }}</ref> A small water feature with an animatronic [[crocodile]] (a [[hippo]] in Nashville) is located just outside the shop, in which visitors are invited to toss coins.


Rainforest Cafe also has a set of eight animal mascots, called "The Wild Bunch". These characters include Cha! Cha!, the [[Agalychnis callidryas|red-eyed tree frog]]; Maya, the [[jaguar]]; Rio, the [[scarlet macaw|macaw]]; Tuki, the [[elephant]]; Ozzie, the orangutan; Bamba, the gorilla; Iggy, the [[green iguana|iguana]]; and Nile, the [[crocodile]]. These eight characters may be represented on children's menus, merchandise, or the company logo.<ref name=Cooper/>
Rainforest Cafe also has a set of eight animal mascots, called "The Wild Bunch". These characters include Cha! Cha!, the [[Agalychnis callidryas|red-eyed tree frog]]; Maya, the [[jaguar]]; Rio, the [[scarlet macaw|macaw]]; Tuki, the [[elephant]]; Ozzie, the orangutan; Bamba, the gorilla; Iggy, the [[green iguana|iguana]]; and Nile, the [[crocodile]]. These eight characters may be represented on children's menus, merchandise, or the company logo.<ref name=Cooper/>


==Menu==
==Menu==
Rainforest Cafe serves typical American chain restaurant fare, such as burgers, chicken, pastas, and seafood, with the addition of some Mexican food to reflect the tropical theme. Their signature dessert, called a volcano, consists of brownie and ice cream topped with a lit sparkler.<ref name="Rainforest Cafe">{{cite web|title=Rainforest Cafe|url=http://www.landrysinc.com/concepts/familyDestinations/rainforest.asp|work=Landry's Inc.|publisher=Landry's Inc.|access-date=12 June 2012}}</ref>
Rainforest Cafe serves typical [[American cuisine|American chain restaurant fare]], such as burgers, chicken, pastas, and seafood, with the addition of some [[Mexican cuisine|Mexican food]] to reflect the tropical theme. Their signature dessert, called a volcano cake, consists of chocolate brownie and vanilla ice cream topped with a lit sparkler.<ref name="Rainforest Cafe">{{Cite web |title=Rainforest Cafe |url=http://www.landrysinc.com/concepts/familyDestinations/rainforest.asp |access-date=12 June 2012 |website=Landry's Inc. }}</ref>


The restaurant also serves alcoholic beverages, some of which are reminiscent of those associated with [[tiki culture]] such as the [[Mai Tai]].
The restaurant also serves alcoholic beverages, some of which are reminiscent of those associated with [[tiki culture]] such as the [[Mai Tai]].
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===Former locations===
===Former locations===
* [[Anaheim, California]]&nbsp;– [[Downtown Disney]] (Opened on January 12, 2001; Closed on June 19, 2018)
* [[Anaheim, California]]&nbsp;– [[Downtown Disney]] (Opened on January 12, 2001; Closed on June 19, 2018)
* [[Farmington, Connecticut|Farmington]], Connecticut&nbsp;– [[Westfarms Mall]] (Opened 2000; Closed 2013)
* [[Houston]], Texas&nbsp;– [[The Galleria|Houston Galleria Mall]] (Opened in Spring 2009; Closed in March 2018)
* [[Houston]], Texas&nbsp;– [[The Galleria|Houston Galleria Mall]] (Opened in Spring 2009; Closed in March 2018)
* [[San Francisco]], California&nbsp;– [[Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco|Fisherman's Wharf]] (Opened in May 2000; Closed on October 1, 2017)
* [[San Francisco]], California&nbsp;– [[Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco|Fisherman's Wharf]] (Opened in May 2000; Closed on October 1, 2017)<ref>{{Cite web |last=Phillips |first=Justin |date=2017-10-02 |title=Rainforest Cafe shuts down in San Francisco |url=https://www.sfchronicle.com/insidescoop/article/Rainforest-Cafe-shuts-down-in-San-Francisco-12247525.php |access-date=September 24, 2024 |website=San Francisco Chronicle}}</ref>
* [[São Paulo]], Brazil&nbsp;– [[Iguatemi São Paulo]] (Opened in January 1999; Closed on June 2, 2009)
* [[Burlington, Massachusetts]]&nbsp;– [[Burlington Mall (Massachusetts)|Burlington Mall]]<ref name="Locations">{{cite web|title=Locations|url=http://www.rainforestcafe.com/locations.asp|work=Rainforest Cafe|publisher=Rainforest Cafe|access-date=17 June 2012}}</ref> (Opened in October 1998; Closed on April 26, 2016)
* [[Burlington, Massachusetts]]&nbsp;– [[Burlington Mall (Massachusetts)|Burlington Mall]]<ref name="Locations">{{Cite web |title=Locations |url=http://www.rainforestcafe.com/locations.asp |access-date=17 June 2012 |website=Rainforest Cafe }}</ref> (Opened in October 1998; Closed on April 26, 2016)
⚫
* Las Vegas, Nevada&nbsp;– [[MGM Grand Las Vegas|MGM Grand Hotel & Casino Las Vegas]] (Opened on December 18, 1997; Closed on August 30, 2015)<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=2810 |title=Rainforest Café – MGM Grand Hotel & Casino|access-date=2015-08-30 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160216122908/http://www.pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=2810 |archive-date=2016-02-16|website=pennycollector.com}}</ref>
* [[Toronto]], Ontario&nbsp;– [[Yorkdale Shopping Center]] (Opened on June 30, 1999, closed January 1, 2014.)<ref>{{cite web|title=Yorkdale Shopping Center – Rainforest Cafe|website=Pennycollector.com|url=http://pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=4205|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160320062530/http://pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=4205|archive-date=2016-03-20}}</ref>
* Las Vegas, Nevada&nbsp;– [[MGM Grand Las Vegas|MGM Grand Hotel & Casino Las Vegas]] (Opened on December 18, 1997; Closed on August 30, 2015)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Rainforest Café – MGM Grand Hotel & Casino |url=http://www.pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=2810 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160216122908/http://www.pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=2810 |archive-date=2016-02-16 |access-date=2015-08-30 |website=pennycollector.com}}</ref>
* [[Costa Mesa, California]]&nbsp;– [[South Coast Plaza]] (Opened June 9, 1997; closed on July 7, 2013)<ref>{{cite web|title=Rainforest Cafe @ South Coast Plaza Mall|website=Pennycollector.com|url=http://pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=1401|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160319231946/http://pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=1401|archive-date=2016-03-19}}</ref>
* [[Toronto]], Ontario&nbsp;– [[Yorkdale Shopping Centre]] (Opened on June 30, 1999, closed January 1, 2014.)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Yorkdale Shopping Center – Rainforest Cafe |url=http://pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=4205 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160320062530/http://pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=4205 |archive-date=2016-03-20 |website=Pennycollector.com}}</ref>
⚫
* [[Costa Mesa, California]]&nbsp;– [[South Coast Plaza]] (Opened June 9, 1997; closed on July 7, 2013)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Rainforest Cafe @ South Coast Plaza Mall |url=http://pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=1401 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160319231946/http://pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=1401 |archive-date=2016-03-19 |website=Pennycollector.com}}</ref>
* [[Pittsburgh]], Pennsylvania&nbsp;– [[Warner Centre]] (Opened July 1997; Closed October 2001){{Citation needed|date=August 2022}}
* [[Pittsburgh]], Pennsylvania&nbsp;– [[Warner Centre]] (Opened July 1997; Closed October 2001){{Citation needed|date=August 2022}}
* [[Aventura, Florida]]&nbsp;– [[Aventura Mall]] (Opened on December 14, 1997; Closed in 2000)
* [[Aventura, Florida]]&nbsp;– [[Aventura Mall]] (Opened on December 14, 1997; Closed in 2000)
* [[Overland Park, Kansas]]&nbsp;– [[Oak Park Mall]] (Opened on February 23, 1999; closed on January 6, 2009)<ref>{{cite web|title=Rainforest Cafe @ Oak Park Mall|website=Pennycollector.com|url=http://pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=2249|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160320060616/http://pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=2249|archive-date=2016-03-20}}</ref>
* [[Overland Park, Kansas]]&nbsp;– [[Oak Park Mall]] (Opened on February 23, 1999; closed on January 6, 2009)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Rainforest Cafe @ Oak Park Mall |url=http://pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=2249 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160320060616/http://pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=2249 |archive-date=2016-03-20 |website=Pennycollector.com}}</ref>
* [[Kowloon Tong]], Hong Kong&nbsp;– [[Festival Walk]] (Opened November 24, 1998; closed on January 3, 2003)
* [[Kowloon Tong]], Hong Kong&nbsp;– [[Festival Walk]] (Opened November 24, 1998; closed on January 3, 2003)
* [[Norfolk, Virginia]]&nbsp;– [[MacArthur Center]] (Opened in June 1999; closed in 2001)
* [[Norfolk, Virginia]]&nbsp;– [[MacArthur Center]] (Opened in June 1999; closed in 2001)
* [[Tysons, Virginia|Tysons Corner, Virginia]]&nbsp;– [[Tysons Corner Center]] (Opened in October 1996, Closed in 2004)
* [[Tysons, Virginia|Tysons Corner, Virginia]]&nbsp;– [[Tysons Corner Center]] (Opened in October 1996, Closed in 2006)
* [[Westbury, New York]]&nbsp;– [[The Source Mall]] (Opened in September 1997; closed on July 19, 2006)
* [[Westbury, New York]]&nbsp;– [[The Source Mall]] (Opened in September 1997; closed on July 19, 2006)
* [[West Nyack, New York]]&nbsp;– [[Palisades Center]] (Opened on March 19, 1998; closed in 2002)
* [[West Nyack, New York]]&nbsp;– [[Palisades Center]] (Opened on March 19, 1998; closed in 2002)
* [[Elizabeth, New Jersey]]&nbsp;– [[The Mills at Jersey Gardens]] (Opened on October 21, 1999; Closed in late 2000)
* [[Elizabeth, New Jersey]]&nbsp;– [[The Mills at Jersey Gardens]] (Opened on October 21, 1999; Closed in late 2000)
* [[Denver]], Colorado,&nbsp;– [[Cherry Creek Shopping Center]] (Opened in Summer 1998; Closed in 2009)
* [[Denver]], Colorado,&nbsp;– [[Cherry Creek Shopping Center]] (Opened in Summer 1998; Closed in 2009)
* [[Towson, Maryland]]&nbsp;– [[Towson Town Center]] (Opened on March 23, 1999; Closed in January 2009)<ref>{{cite web|title=Rainforest Cafe @ Towson Town Center|website=Pennycollector.com|url=http://pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=2458|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160320033416/http://pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=2458|archive-date=2016-03-20}}</ref>
* [[Towson, Maryland]]&nbsp;– [[Towson Town Center]] (Opened on March 23, 1999; Closed in January 2009)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Rainforest Cafe @ Towson Town Center |url=http://pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=2458 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160320033416/http://pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=2458 |archive-date=2016-03-20 |website=Pennycollector.com}}</ref>
* Toronto, Ontario&nbsp;– [[Scarborough Town Center]], Opened in February 1999; closed on January 7, 2001)
* Toronto, Ontario&nbsp;– [[Scarborough Town Centre]], (Opened in February 1999; closed on January 7, 2001)
* [[Manchester]], England&nbsp;– [[Trafford Center]] (Closed in 2003)
* [[Manchester]], England&nbsp;– [[Trafford Center]] (Closed in 2003)
* [[Burnaby]], British Columbia&nbsp;– [[Metropolis at Metrotown]] (Opened in 1998, closed on September 2, 2001)
* [[Burnaby]], British Columbia&nbsp;– [[Metropolis at Metrotown]] (Opened in June 1998, closed on September 2, 2001)
* [[Mexico City]], Mexico&nbsp;– Metropol Entertainment Central
* [[Mexico City]], Mexico&nbsp;– Metropol Entertainment Central
* [[Cancún]], Mexico&nbsp;– Plaza Forum by the Sea (Opened on August 15, 1997)
* [[Cancún]], Mexico&nbsp;– Plaza Forum by the Sea (Opened on August 15, 1997)
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* Mexico City, Mexico&nbsp;– [[Centro Santa Fe]]
* Mexico City, Mexico&nbsp;– [[Centro Santa Fe]]
* [[Istanbul]], Turkey&nbsp;– [[İstinye Park]] (Closed in 2010.)
* [[Istanbul]], Turkey&nbsp;– [[İstinye Park]] (Closed in 2010.)
* [[Farmington, Connecticut]]&nbsp;– [[Westfarms Mall]] (Opened in February 2000; Closed in 2013)<ref>{{cite web|title=West Farms Mall – Rainforest Cafe|website=Pennycollector.com|url=http://pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=1459|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160320154239/http://pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=1459|archive-date=2016-03-20}}</ref>
* [[Farmington, Connecticut]]&nbsp;– [[Westfarms Mall]] (Opened in February 2000; Closed in 2013)<ref>{{Cite web |title=West Farms Mall – Rainforest Cafe |url=http://pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=1459 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160320154239/http://pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=1459 |archive-date=2016-03-20 |website=Pennycollector.com}}</ref>
* [[Cairo]], Egypt&nbsp;– City Stars Mall (Opened in February 2008, closed approximately in 2012.)<ref name="Locations"/>
* [[Cairo]], Egypt&nbsp;– City Stars Mall (Opened in February 2008, closed approximately in 2012.)<ref name="Locations" />
* [[Philadelphia]], Pennsylvania&nbsp;– [[Philadelphia Mills]] (formerly Franklin Mills) (Opened on November 27, 1998; Closed in February 2001)<ref>{{cite web|title=Rainforest Cafe @ Franklin Mills Mall|website=Pennycollector.com|url=http://pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=4028|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160319083231/http://pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=4028|archive-date=2016-03-19}}</ref>
* [[Philadelphia]], Pennsylvania&nbsp;– [[Philadelphia Mills]] (formerly Franklin Mills) (Opened on November 27, 1998; Closed in February 2001)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Rainforest Cafe @ Franklin Mills Mall |url=http://pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=4028 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160319083231/http://pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=4028 |archive-date=2016-03-19 |website=Pennycollector.com}}</ref>
* [[Tukwila, Washington]]&nbsp;– [[Westfield Southcenter]] (Opened on June 29, 1999; Closed in January 2016)<ref>{{cite web|title=Westfield South Center Mall – Rainforest Cafe|website=Pennycollector.com|url=http://pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=1109|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160319204609/http://pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=1109|archive-date=2016-03-19}}</ref>
* [[Tukwila, Washington]]&nbsp;– [[Westfield Southcenter]] (Opened on June 29, 1999; Closed in January 2016)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Westfield South Center Mall – Rainforest Cafe |url=http://pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=1109 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160319204609/http://pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=1109 |archive-date=2016-03-19 |website=Pennycollector.com}}</ref>
* Bloomington, Minnesota&nbsp;– First floor of [[Mall of America]] (Opened on February 3, 1994, with 295 seats, also the first location; Closed in September 2014 for relocation.)<ref>{{cite web|title=Mall of America – Rainforest Cafe|website=Pennycollector.com|url=http://pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=3084|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160319064818/http://pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=3084|archive-date=2016-03-19}}</ref>
* Bloomington, Minnesota&nbsp;– First floor of [[Mall of America]] (Opened on February 3, 1994, with 295 seats, also the first location; Closed in September 2014 for relocation.)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Mall of America – Rainforest Cafe |url=http://pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=3084 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160319064818/http://pennycollector.com/Details.aspx?location=3084 |archive-date=2016-03-19 |website=Pennycollector.com}}</ref>
*3 Simei Street 6, Singapore&nbsp;– Eastpoint Shopping Mall (Closed sometime in the 2000s)
*3 Simei Street 6, Singapore&nbsp;– Eastpoint Shopping Mall (Closed sometime in the 2000s) & Liang Court;- Fort Canning (Closed down in 2003)
* [[Schaumburg, Illinois]]&nbsp;– [[Woodfield Mall]] (Opened on October 20, 1995, closed on January 1, 2020)
* [[Schaumburg, Illinois]]&nbsp;– [[Woodfield Mall]] (Opened on October 20, 1995, closed on January 1, 2020)
* [[Chicago]], Illinois&nbsp;– [[Near North Side, Chicago|Downtown Chicago]] (Opened on October 2, 1997, closed August 12, 2020)
* [[Chicago]], Illinois&nbsp;– [[Near North Side, Chicago|Downtown Chicago]] (Opened on October 2, 1997, closed August 12, 2020)
* [[Dubai]], United Arab Emirates&nbsp;– [[The Dubai Mall]] (Opened in 2009, closed in 2020, replaced by the Festival City Mall location)
* [[Dubai]], United Arab Emirates&nbsp;– [[Dubai Mall]] (Opened in 2009, closed in 2020, replaced by the [[Dubai Festival City Mall|Festival City Mall]] location)
* [[London]], England&nbsp;– [[Piccadilly Circus]] (Opened on June 24, 1997, closed 2022 and rebranded as Jungle Cave)
* [[London]], England&nbsp;– [[Piccadilly Circus]] (Opened on June 24, 1997, closed 2022 and rebranded as Jungle Cave)


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==In popular culture==
==In popular culture==
* The restaurant's former location in Burlington Mall in Burlington, Massachusetts, appeared in the 2009 film ''[[Paul Blart: Mall Cop]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.masslive.com/news/erry-2018/12/55aef1b10c4751/40-massachusetts-malls-and-sho.html|title=40 Massachusetts malls and shopping centers ranked from the worst to the best|last=LaFratta|first=Kristin|work=MassLive|date=December 20, 2018|accessdate=July 9, 2022}}</ref>
* The restaurant's former location in Burlington Mall in Burlington, Massachusetts, appeared in the 2009 film ''[[Paul Blart: Mall Cop]]''.<ref>{{Cite news |last=LaFratta |first=Kristin |date=December 20, 2018 |title=40 Massachusetts malls and shopping centers ranked from the worst to the best |url=https://www.masslive.com/news/erry-2018/12/55aef1b10c4751/40-massachusetts-malls-and-sho.html |access-date=July 9, 2022 |work=MassLive}}</ref>
* Rainforest Cafe sponsored ''[[Curious George (TV series)|Curious George]]'' on [[PBS Kids]], replacing [[Amazon Grocery]] & [[Shea Homes]].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Annemarie |first1=Moody |title=New Season of Curious George Teaches Preschoolers About Health and Fitness |url=https://www.awn.com/news/new-season-curious-george-teaches-preschoolers-about-health-and-fitness |access-date=9 July 2022 |date=July 28, 2009}}</ref>
* Rainforest Cafe sponsored ''[[Curious George (TV series)|Curious George]]'' on [[PBS Kids]], replacing [[Amazon Grocery]] & [[Shea Homes]].<ref>{{Cite news |last=Annemarie |first=Moody |date=July 28, 2009 |title=New Season of Curious George Teaches Preschoolers About Health and Fitness |url=https://www.awn.com/news/new-season-curious-george-teaches-preschoolers-about-health-and-fitness |access-date=9 July 2022}}</ref>
* In 2022, [[YouTube]] content creators Eddy Burback and Ted Nivison visited and ate at every Rainforest Cafe location in North America, which was chronicled in two videos that went [[viral video|viral]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.dailyherald.com/entlife/20220707/a-youtube-gem-goes-to-gurnee-and-beyond-18-rainforest-cafes-in-3-weeks|title=A YouTube gem goes to Gurnee and beyond: 18 Rainforest Cafes in 3 weeks|last=Stangland|first=Sean|work=[[Daily Herald (Arlington Heights, Illinois)|The Daily Herald]]|date=July 7, 2022|accessdate=July 9, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-07-08 |title=The Out-of-Touch Adults' Guide to Kid Culture: Why Are 'Gentleminions' Being Banned? |url=https://lifehacker.com/minions-movie-gentleminions-banned-theaters-1849155607 |access-date=2022-07-21 |website=Lifehacker |at=Viral video of the week |language=en-us}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thrillist.com/eat/nation/rainforest-cafes-experiential-chain-restaurants-popularity|title=Rainforest Cafe and the Enduring Appeal of Experiential Chain Restaurants|last=Maxwell|first=Samantha|work=[[Thrillist]]|date=December 15, 2022|access-date=December 16, 2022}}</ref> The Rainforest Cafe [[twitter]] acknowledged them for their accomplishment. <ref>{{Cite web |last=Cafe |first=Rainforest |date=8 July 2022 |title=*smartest |url=https://twitter.com/rainforest_cafe/status/1545538462388031490?s=21&t=1LJW7kfcx9Cd6oCknyulQg |url-status=live |website=[[Twitter]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Cafe |first=Rainforest |date=18 August 2022 |title=No apologies necessary. |url=https://twitter.com/rainforest_cafe/status/1560286798768742401?s=21&t=1LJW7kfcx9Cd6oCknyulQg |url-status=live |website=[[Twitter]]}}</ref>
* In 2022, [[YouTube]] content creators Eddy Burback and Ted Nivison visited and ate at every Rainforest Cafe location in North America, which was chronicled in two videos that went [[viral video|viral]].<ref>{{Cite news |last=McCormack |first=Olivia |date=2023-08-14 |title=He ate at 22 Margaritavilles — and learned the joy of Jimmy Buffett |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/arts-entertainment/2023/08/12/eddy-burback-margaritaville-youtube/ |access-date=2023-08-19 |newspaper=[[The Washington Post]] |language=en-US |issn=0190-8286}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Stangland |first=Sean |date=July 7, 2022 |title=A YouTube gem goes to Gurnee and beyond: 18 Rainforest Cafes in 3 weeks |url=https://www.dailyherald.com/entlife/20220707/a-youtube-gem-goes-to-gurnee-and-beyond-18-rainforest-cafes-in-3-weeks |access-date=July 9, 2022 |work=[[Daily Herald (Arlington Heights, Illinois)|The Daily Herald]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Johnson |first=Stephen |date=2022-07-08 |title=The Out-of-Touch Adults' Guide to Kid Culture: Why Are 'Gentleminions' Being Banned? |url=https://lifehacker.com/minions-movie-gentleminions-banned-theaters-1849155607 |access-date=2022-07-21 |work=Lifehacker |at=Viral video of the week |language=en-us}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Maxwell |first=Samantha |date=December 15, 2022 |title=Rainforest Cafe and the Enduring Appeal of Experiential Chain Restaurants |url=https://www.thrillist.com/eat/nation/rainforest-cafes-experiential-chain-restaurants-popularity |access-date=December 16, 2022 |work=[[Thrillist]]}}</ref>


==References==
==References==

Latest revision as of 17:38, 24 September 2024

Rainforest Cafe
Company typeSubsidiary
IndustryRestaurants
FoundedFebruary 3, 1994; 30 years ago (1994-02-03), Bloomington, Minnesota
FounderSteven Schussler
Headquarters
Houston, Texas
,
United States
Number of locations
23 restaurants
Area served
  • Canada
  • France
  • Japan
  • Malta
  • United Arab Emirates
  • United States
Key people
Steven Schussler, Founder
Tilman J. Fertitta Chairman, President, and Chief executive officer
ProductsPasta, Seafood, Salad, Sandwiches, Dessert; Merchandise[1]
ParentIndependent (1994-2000) Landry's Restaurants (2000-Present)
Websiterainforestcafe.com
A neon-sign welcomes visitors to Rainforest Cafe, located inside the Great Lakes Crossing Outlets shopping complex in Auburn Hills, Michigan, on March 11, 2016.
An example of the canopy ceiling including artificial trees and foliage for the Rainforest Cafe at MGM Grand Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada, on June 3, 2008.

Rainforest Cafe is a jungle-themed restaurant chain owned by Landry's, Inc., of Houston. The first location opened in the Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota, on February 3, 1994. By 1997, the chain consisted of six restaurants, all in the United States. The first international location opened in London, England in June 1997. In 1998, it was planned to build 12 additional restaurants in the United States, seven in Mexico, and five in the United Kingdom, for a total of 22 restaurants by 2008.[2]

In 2000, the Rainforest Cafe was bought by Landry's Restaurants Inc., a company specializing in dining, hospitality, entertainment, and gaming, based in Houston, Texas.[3] To date, the company owns restaurants in the United States, Canada, France, the United Arab Emirates, Japan, and Malta. Rainforest Cafe focuses on local tourism for a majority of their income.[2]

Exterior of the Rainforest Cafe in Galveston, Texas, on June 11, 2010.

Design

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Each Rainforest Cafe restaurant is designed to depict the atmosphere of a tropical rainforest, including fake plants, fog machines, waterfalls, and rainforest animals. The ceiling and much of the walls are lined with artificial foliage, while lower areas and booth seating are decorated with faux rock. Brick textures suggest ancient ruins, and support pillars are made to look like tree trunks. Often, there is a waterfall with a fountain in the dining area, with a statue depicting Atlas holding up the Earth to communicate a conservation message. Papier-mâché birds and butterflies are suspended from the trees, and other whimsical rainforest creatures are mounted, as though climbing on the walls or peeking through the foliage. The ceiling above the center of the dining room features a simulated starry night sky, designed and manufactured by Fiber Optic Systems Inc., located in Whitehouse Station, New Jersey.[4] The bar area is situated under a gigantic mushroom, partitioned from the rest of the restaurant by a rain curtain. The chain is known for its characteristic bar stools, made to resemble the legs of animals, designed and sculpted by the artist Glenn Carter.[5] Fish tanks with tropical reef fish are spread throughout the restaurant and the gift shop space. Periodically, a simulated thunderstorm will occur every few minutes, with strobe lights and thunder effects through subwoofers.

Rainforest Cafe at Disney's Animal Kingdom in September 2002.

Animatronic animals are spread throughout the restaurant. These include butterflies, elephants, gorillas, leopards, orangutans, chimpanzees, macaws, monkeys and tigers, though this will vary by location. The restaurant is laid out so that these animals are set off the ground and are largely above diners' heads, not only allowing them to be seen from farther away, but making them appear larger as well. A crocodile and a python are often located in the gift shop area to attract the attention of passersby. Tracy Tree, an animated tree face, sits inside the shop and provides rainforest facts. The animals are manufactured by Russells Creative, LLC, of Apopka, Florida, formerly UCFab International.[6]

A retail village is located in front of the dining area with an assortment of souvenirs that are rainforest-themed or are branded with the Rainforest Cafe logo, mostly printed by the Atlanta-based fashion apparel company Boxercraft Inc.[7] A small water feature with an animatronic crocodile (a hippo in Nashville) is located just outside the shop, in which visitors are invited to toss coins.

Rainforest Cafe also has a set of eight animal mascots, called "The Wild Bunch". These characters include Cha! Cha!, the red-eyed tree frog; Maya, the jaguar; Rio, the macaw; Tuki, the elephant; Ozzie, the orangutan; Bamba, the gorilla; Iggy, the iguana; and Nile, the crocodile. These eight characters may be represented on children's menus, merchandise, or the company logo.[7]

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Rainforest Cafe serves typical American chain restaurant fare, such as burgers, chicken, pastas, and seafood, with the addition of some Mexican food to reflect the tropical theme. Their signature dessert, called a volcano cake, consists of chocolate brownie and vanilla ice cream topped with a lit sparkler.[1]

The restaurant also serves alcoholic beverages, some of which are reminiscent of those associated with tiki culture such as the Mai Tai.

Locations

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U.S. locations

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International locations

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Merchandise locations

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Former locations

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References

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  1. ^ a b "Rainforest Cafe". Landry's Inc. Retrieved June 12, 2012.
  2. ^ a b "Rainforest Cafe". The River Walk Guide. The San Antonio River Walk Guide. Retrieved June 23, 2012.
  3. ^ "Landry's, Inc – Finding Success on All Fronts". Who We Are. Landry's Inc. Retrieved June 23, 2012.
  4. ^ "Retail and Commercial Projects". Client List. Fiber Optic Systems, Inc. Retrieved June 17, 2012.
  5. ^ "Bellevue sculptor goes down the rabbit hole". Idaho Mountain Express. April 8, 2015. Retrieved April 11, 2015.
  6. ^ "Furry Creatures". UCFab International. UCFab International, LLC. Archived from the original on June 14, 2013.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: unfit URL (link)
  7. ^ a b Cooper, Janice. "Rainforest Cafe - A Wild Experience". RateIt. Archived from the original on February 23, 2012. Retrieved June 17, 2012.
  8. ^ Phillips, Justin (October 2, 2017). "Rainforest Cafe shuts down in San Francisco". San Francisco Chronicle. Retrieved September 24, 2024.
  9. ^ a b "Locations". Rainforest Cafe. Retrieved June 17, 2012.
  10. ^ "Rainforest Café – MGM Grand Hotel & Casino". pennycollector.com. Archived from the original on February 16, 2016. Retrieved August 30, 2015.
  11. ^ "Yorkdale Shopping Center – Rainforest Cafe". Pennycollector.com. Archived from the original on March 20, 2016.
  12. ^ "Rainforest Cafe @ South Coast Plaza Mall". Pennycollector.com. Archived from the original on March 19, 2016.
  13. ^ "Rainforest Cafe @ Oak Park Mall". Pennycollector.com. Archived from the original on March 20, 2016.
  14. ^ "Rainforest Cafe @ Towson Town Center". Pennycollector.com. Archived from the original on March 20, 2016.
  15. ^ "West Farms Mall – Rainforest Cafe". Pennycollector.com. Archived from the original on March 20, 2016.
  16. ^ "Rainforest Cafe @ Franklin Mills Mall". Pennycollector.com. Archived from the original on March 19, 2016.
  17. ^ "Westfield South Center Mall – Rainforest Cafe". Pennycollector.com. Archived from the original on March 19, 2016.
  18. ^ "Mall of America – Rainforest Cafe". Pennycollector.com. Archived from the original on March 19, 2016.
  19. ^ LaFratta, Kristin (December 20, 2018). "40 Massachusetts malls and shopping centers ranked from the worst to the best". MassLive. Retrieved July 9, 2022.
  20. ^ Annemarie, Moody (July 28, 2009). "New Season of Curious George Teaches Preschoolers About Health and Fitness". Retrieved July 9, 2022.
  21. ^ McCormack, Olivia (August 14, 2023). "He ate at 22 Margaritavilles — and learned the joy of Jimmy Buffett". The Washington Post. ISSN 0190-8286. Retrieved August 19, 2023.
  22. ^ Stangland, Sean (July 7, 2022). "A YouTube gem goes to Gurnee and beyond: 18 Rainforest Cafes in 3 weeks". The Daily Herald. Retrieved July 9, 2022.
  23. ^ Johnson, Stephen (July 8, 2022). "The Out-of-Touch Adults' Guide to Kid Culture: Why Are 'Gentleminions' Being Banned?". Lifehacker. Viral video of the week. Retrieved July 21, 2022.
  24. ^ Maxwell, Samantha (December 15, 2022). "Rainforest Cafe and the Enduring Appeal of Experiential Chain Restaurants". Thrillist. Retrieved December 16, 2022.
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