About Us
Our Story: A Tale of Smoke, Spirit, and a Taste of Baltimore
Our story at Pit Pendulum BBQ is a blend of two passions: the timeless art of barbecue and the haunting, poetic spirit of our hometown, Baltimore.
Inspired by Edgar Allan Poe—a literary legend who walked our city’s streets—our name pays homage to his chilling tale, “The Pit and the Pendulum.” It’s a nod to the meticulous, rhythmic swing of the smoker’s pendulum, and our low-and-slow cooking process.
For Pitmaster, Dan Hatfield, a proud veteran with 20 years of Army experience, the disciplined craft of smoking meat is a perfect blend of patience and purpose. This isn’t just barbecue; it’s a taste of Baltimore history and a testament to veteran pride, crafted for food lovers and seekers of the extraordinary.
About
Pitmaster, Dan Hatfield
Daniel Hatfield, Founder & Pitmaster
Daniel is the heart and soul behind Pit Pendulum BBQ. A 20-year Army veteran with deep Baltimore roots, he traded a military uniform for a smoking apron. His love for BBQ began as a hobby, a quest to perfect the art of smoke and fire. Today, he’s a true pitmaster, committed to bringing the best possible barbecue to the community he calls home.
2025 Recipient of the Maryland Governor’s Citation for outstanding services to the citizens of Maryland.
About
Our Philosophy & Commitment
At Pit Pendulum, we’re driven by a passion for authenticity and a commitment to our craft. We use the highest quality meats and signature house-made rubs, smoking everything low-and-slow over seasoned wood to achieve that perfect tenderness and flavor.
As a veteran-owned business, our roots run deep in the Baltimore community. We’re committed to giving back to the city that inspired us. This dedication is built on our core values: Authenticity, Community Engagement, Creativity, Veteran Leadership, and Quality & Consistency.
We exist to bring a touch of the extraordinary to your breweries and festivals, and a memorable, atmospheric experience to your most important events.
