The Refuge has been providing protection for many East Coast street food classics since 2008. The hand-carved, ultra tender, boldly flavored navel pastrami sends shockwaves throughout the gastronomic …
Upon first inspection, the sandwich presents an aesthetic that is both rustic and inviting. The pastrami, thick-cut to perfection, offers a tender resistance to the bite, indicative of a slow and deliberate cooking process that respects the integrity of the meat. The butter-soft texture of the pastrami is a testament to the culinary expertise employed in its preparation.
The coleslaw provides a refreshing counterbalance to the richness of the meat. Its crispness is a sensory delight, while the inclusion of salt-roasted pepitas introduces a subtle complexity to the palate. These pepitas, I must emphasize, are not merely a garnish but a thoughtful addition that elevates the dish.
The 1000 Island sauce, often dismissed as commonplace, in this instance, is anything but. It harmonizes the disparate elements of the sandwich into a cohesive whole, its creamy tanginess accentuating the flavors rather than overwhelming them.
In conclusion, this sandwich is not merely sustenance but an experience—a symphony of textures and tastes that pays homage to the deli tradition while boldly asserting its own unique identity.
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Mark P
9 contribuciones
Didn't like
• 26/5/24
• Orden de DoorDash
while the food is good, the portions are outrageously small for the price. The Orange-Bourbon Hot Wings and Hot Wings each only had 5 not huge wings in the order, and a New York deli would have never served such a skinny Reuben - and certainly not for over $30. If the prices were better, and portions better, I would order here a lot.
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Jane C
4 contribuciones
Loved
• 19/5/26
• Orden de DoorDash
The Reuben was delicious! Best sandwich I've ever had there... or maybe anywhere! The pastrami was tender and flavorful. Fries were also good . We couldn't eat them all. So many!
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Melissa L
Nuevo experto • 5 contribuciones
Loved
• 23/10/25
• Orden de DoorDash
The most consistent restaurant I've ever eaten at, and my favorite in the Bay Area. The Pastrami #19 is quite possibly the best sandwich I've ever eaten and I would highly recommend it over any of their other many items even though I've yet to have something I didn't enjoy. While a bit pricey, I often have leftovers or leave extremely full as the portions are generous. They have, in my opinion, the best Fries you can possibly have, always fresh, hot, and perfectly salted. We go to the San Carlos location and the staff is so welcoming and friendly. The Refuge is a 10/10 in my book and have something for everyone but do be sure to try the pastrami.
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Christopher L
2 contribuciones
Didn't like
• 10/11/23
• Orden de DoorDash
DoorDash service was good, this review is for the restaurant. Brussel Sprouts were bland and flavorless. Short Rib Barbacoa Nachos were cold and meat was dry Im most disappointed in the Mac & Cheese $12 for a small scoop of what tasted like craft Mac and cheese that was more of a kids menu item than an appetizer. For the $70+ this cost me I will never be eating here again
