The Refuge Chef

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Introduction: The Refuge Chef has over 15 years of industry experience in creating gourmet food for clients and businesses. We use the highest-quality, fresh, local, and sustainable produce, meat, and seafood to nourish our clients. The Refuge Chef delivers the best service at fair prices. We take great pride in sourcing the highest-quality foods and the safest cooking standards to deliver creative, delicious foods for you and your guests. From gourmet dinner parties to corporate events and craft cocktail parties, we can do it. Our staff is the best, and we take care of you like family.

Overview

Hired 25 times

9 years in business

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Top Pro status

Top Pros are among the highest-rated, most popular professionals on Thumbtack.

2017

2016

Featured Projects

26 photos

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Reviews

Customers rated this pro highly for professionalism, work quality, and responsiveness.

Exceptional 5.0

23 reviews

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Nikki H.

Mar 3, 2016

Chef John's food is imaginative, creative, healthy and tastes amazing! He came to our home for a small dinner party and made a five course tasting menu and paired it with some high quality wines from the PNW. Chef John is friendly, funny and provides for a relaxed yet refined experience. We plan on having him back again soon! Thank you for a wonderful, memorable evening with our closest friends.

Ben R.

Mar 4, 2016

It would be hard to lavish enough praise on Chef Bernatz! I highly recommend him for his food, style, and passion. We asked him to create a memorable meal for a few friends, in our home, in celebration of my birthday. The result was a dazzling, six-course offering of tapas with wine pairings! Not only was the food spectacular, but throughout the evening, Chef Bernatz added to the experience with colorful bits of Spanish history about the cuisine and culture. Our guests left feeling full, cared for, and entertained. A memorable night for all!

Michelle P.

Apr 27, 2016

Chef John, his wife and staff were the best way to start off our wine makers dinners here at Koi Pond Cellars. Not only was it delicious and perfectly paired with our wines but it was healthy too. Chef John did a fabulous job creating and educating our guests. We defiantly recommend him and we will use his services again for sure! Michelle Parker Koi Pond Cellars

The Refuge Chef's reply

Michelle, thank you for your kindness. We had a wonderful time providing the food for your winemaker's dinner and look forward to many more dinners in the future. John & Dyann

Christine S.

Jun 21, 2016

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Hired on Thumbtack

We give Chef John highest compliments for making our Farm to Table dinner in our orchard a memory of a lifetime. We chose Chef John because of his dedication to wholesome, natural foods artfully prepared with concern for health and the environment, but also for his easy-to-work with nature. (I interviewed 4 other chefs who did not exude that instant feeling of ease and comfort.) Our guests remarked that each course was more exciting than the last. People waited eagerly for his culinary explanation before each course, which added to the anticipation and enjoyment of each bite. The food was simply delicious and execution impeccable. Our crowd of 60 people was a tough one and included foodies, vegans, vegetarians and celiacs. Everyone walked away marveling at their ability to enjoy every course, a first for many. His wonderful team made this event completely stressless for me. From decorating my orchard, to setting the table, caring for my guests, tearing down (even in darkness) and leaving my kitchen completely spotless. Dyann’s creative touches made the event truly memorable. I won’t give them away in case she finds them suitable for you. When you receive emails and handwritten cards telling you that a person will never forget your party, you know you’ve found the very best team available. We’ll hire Chef John and his team again.

Event Catering (Buffet)

Amy M.

Aug 14, 2016

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Hired on Thumbtack

M apb Zy

Wedding and Event Catering

FAQs

What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
No, since every event is unique and each client has specific needs. I have a general idea of what can be provided within specific budgets and I tailor the menu and event services to meet each clients budget.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Each client is special and their event is unique. I love what I do because I get to meet so many new people. Every new customer and event starts with a phone call to get as many details as possible to ensure that The Refuge Chef delivers all of your expectations. If time permits I like to meet with clients in person and visit the event site to get a thorough understanding to deliver the best possible experience for the client and their guests.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am a classically trained chef with a degree in culinary art and restaurant management. I have been cooking in restaurants, corporate kitchens and private residences for 16 years. Every day I learn something new about food and I love to share my knowledge with others.