Rachel Portnov | May 12, 2023
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.
Stay up to date on the latest real estate trends.
November 2, 2026
Why some California new-construction homes come with a higher annual tax bill, what a Mello-Roos district pays for, and what buyers should review before signing.
October 26, 2026
Why the list price is often a strategic starting point—and how buyer competition can determine the final sale price.
October 19, 2026
What heirs, trustees, and families need to know about California’s Prop 19 rules before deciding whether to move into, rent, or sell an inherited home.
October 13, 2026
A Bay Area guide to fall real estate, including September inventory, motivated buyers, seasonal competition, pricing strategy, and year-end opportunities.
September 24, 2026
Why the strongest offer isn’t always the highest—and how price, financing, contingencies, and certainty can determine which buyer is truly in the best position to clos… Read more
September 17, 2026
A practical look at what happens after an offer is accepted, from financing and title work to signatures, funding, and the final transfer of ownership.
September 11, 2026
What is a disclosure package in Bay Area real estate? Learn what home inspections, seller disclosures, HOA documents, and property reports buyers typically review befo… Read more
September 3, 2026
How strategic preparation can increase buyer appeal, create stronger competition, and help you get the best possible result when selling your home.
August 27, 2026
Learn why pre-listing inspections are worth it for Bay Area sellers. See how upfront inspections can build buyer confidence, reduce escrow surprises, and help create s… Read more
You’ve got questions and we can’t wait to answer them.