It’s usually the East Coast that comes to mind when most people talk about finding a great Reuben sandwich, but there’s a place much closer to home that may just change your mind forever. I’ll go out on a limb and say the Refuge serves up the best Reuben sandwich in the Bay Area! Refuge has three locations. One is in Menlo Park, another is in San Carlos, and the third, and newest location, sits in San Mateo’s Hillsdale Shopping Center. 

That’s where I recently caught up with Refuge owner, Matt Levin. Sure, the Refuge serves pastrami, but you’ll also find Philly cheesesteaks, burgers, soups, and salads on the menu. If you can’t decide, or you have more people to feed, consider one of their combo meals or their family meals. If you have an event coming up, be sure to check out the catering menu.

Operating hours are slightly different for the three locations, so you’ll want to check the latest hours on-line before you go. The Refuge does have your choice of indoor dining or heated outdoor seating at all three of its locations. It’s first-come, first-served for most, but if you have eight or more people, they do take reservations.