The Refuge: Build, Dwell, Think

About the Founders

The heart and soul of The Refuge are Chef/Owner, Matt Levin and Chef de Cuisine, Michael Greuel. They met as sous chefs at the well known peninsula restaurant, Viognier. It was there that Matt and Michael conceived The Refuge. Later, Matt became Chef de Cuisine and Michael the Executive Chef at Viognier.

The combined experience and background of the two are unparalleled. Matt has extensive international experience. He worked in Paris, France for two years. Working in the prestigious Michelin-starred kitchens such as Les Ambassadeurs at Hotel de Crillon, Taillevent, and Le Pre Catelan, Matt delved into the deep world of ” La Grand Cuisine”. Moreover, Matt assimilated himself with the rich culture of wine and charcuterie (art of curing meats). The true French culture, Matt realized, revolved around a bold autonomy, constantly blooming from respected traditions. He carries this epiphany in his head to this very day. Like a perfectly scripted fairy tale, the genesis of The Refuge’s name lies just adjacent to Matt’s old metro stop in Montmartre. It was an old wine bistrot called Le Refuge. Coming from a Jewish background, Matt began to notice many similarities between a Deli Man and a French Charcutier.

They both worked in the world of cured meats and had culinary traditions that go back hundreds of years. Also, they were both a natural, grassroots product of the community. The greatest cooks, Matt believes, work within the spectre of ‘Tour de Main’, or ‘slight of hand’. These are the minute details and techniques that are not in the recipes or presentations. Rather, they are sublime expressions that elevate what is seemingly ordinary to the extraordinary, and show their face at the most unlikely times, in every level of cuisine. Overwhelmed with inspiration, Matt made up his mind that this was the type of restaurant he’d like to own.

Not too long after their introduction, Michael was on board with all things The Refuge. He was a perfect partner for Matt. Michael has unyielding honesty and loyalty. His perseverance and drive had carried the two through many tough situations. Michael’s word is golden, and that is very, very rare these days. His taste, palate, and philosophy echo perfectly, the vision of Matt and The Refuge; and his wealth of experience with Bay Area diners proved invaluable. That is why he was chosen as Chef de Cuisine.