The Refuge Chef

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About

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

11 years in business

Business hours

This pro hasn't listed their business hours.

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Top Pro status

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

2017

2016

Services offered

Event type

Wedding

Birthday or anniversary party

Dinner party

Corporate event

Meal

Breakfast or brunch

Lunch

Cocktail hour or hors d'oeuvres

Dinner

Drinks and dessert

Dessert

Non-alcoholic drinks

Alcoholic drinks

Coffee or tea

Projects and media

Reviews

Customers rated this pro highly for value, punctuality, and professionalism.

Exceptional 5.0

23 reviews

5

96%

4

4%

3

0%

2

0%

1

0%

Read reviews that mention:

Marjorie H.

Jul 23, 2017

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Hired on Thumbtack

Wedding Catering

Laura H.

Jan 11, 2017

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Hired on Thumbtack

John and his wife catered our holiday gathering and it was a wonderful success, due to their exceptional menu creation and masterful presentation. They arrived before anyone else to make sure everything was set up in plenty of time. There were many compliments from the guests on the quality and the quantity of the food. I was able to devote my time to my friends and guests and had no worries as they seamlessly managed the buffet presentation and the ongoing tidying up. The cleanup at the end of the night was done quickly by John and his wife. I offered to help and they graciously told me they would take care of everything. I had a few unusual requests (wanted to use my own plates / silverware and wanted a few vegetarian choices) and John was able to accommodate these with no qualms. I am not a creative person or one who is familiar with epicurean choices, so I let John select the menu and presentation and he chose wonderfully. I would not hesitate to have The Refuge Chef cater any future event I have.

Event Catering (Drop-off)

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)

Chris D.

May 17, 2016

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Hired on Thumbtack

Event Catering (Buffet)

Sharon a.

Aug 18, 2016

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Hired on Thumbtack

Absolutely the best experience. Excellent food, excellent staff, superb execution of service. Chef John listened to our food preferences ( plant based ) and also provided a diverse selection of food for the carnivores in the crowd. Wine and beer selection by Chef John complemented the food fantastically. Chef John wowed our crowd of world travelers with his skilled and well crafted menu. He and his wife / partner pulled off our event on a tight schedule and set in motion a new interest in entertaining in your own home. I can't say enough about how wonderful our evening was for everyone.

Corporate Dinner 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.