The subject matter of this specification can be implemented in, among other things, a method for refining search results. The method includes a step for receiving a request to refine search results, wherein the request identifies a first social circle to apply for refining the search results, wherein the first social circle comprises a preset group of contacts of a user within a social network service. The method also includes a step for retrieving search results based on the received request and a step for refining the retrieved search results based on the identified first social circle. The method also includes a step for providing at least a portion of the refined search results to an electronic device for display.