Without a doubt, Maryland’s number one contribution to BBQ culture the world over is the pit beef sandwich. Big top round cuts of beef are quickly seared over a charcoal grill, then sliced thin and served rare on fluffy rolls with a varied assortment of toppings, from your favorite BBQ sauce to raw slices of onion. This glorious sandwich is a Maryland staple, right alongside blue crabs and Berger cookies. You can find them all over the state, but one of my favorites has got to be The Canopy in Ellicott City. Since 1983, this colorful shop has been slinging some of the best pit beef in the state, pulling in dozens of awards and the prestige that goes with them as they do. Don’t hesitate to swing by and try them – you won’t be disappointed!
The Canopy is just a quick trip up Route 40 from Baltimore, and the bright orange canopy outside the shop is what gave them their iconic name. They’ve been a take-out-only spot for a while, but they now have an extension where you can sit and enjoy your meal!
The traditional way to experience The Canopy’s incredible flavors is to head to the take-out counter and place your order. I got lucky and showed up just before the lunch rush, but once that hits, the line can frequently extend out the front door.
The rare pit beef sandwich is the classic order, and it’s easy to see why. The smokey flavors and perfectly seasoned sear go great with any range of BBQ or horseradish sauces you could want - the tiger sauce is my recommendation, but there are tons to try!
Another Maryland staple that The Canopy does better than anyone is their Maryland crab soup. This tomato-based option is packed with veggies and spice, and of course with melt-in-your-mouth lump crab meat. This is one of my family’s favorites.
The Canopy may be famous for their pit beef, but their BBQ chicken sandwiches sure don’t taste as if they play second fiddle. The sauce is a uniquely Maryland BBQ that’s absolutely delicious. I recommend having them put a scoop of coleslaw beneath the meat for a sweet and crunchy texture!
A true-blue classic BBQ side that is always welcome on my plate is baked beans. The Canopy makes a stewed great northern bean that can rival any in the great BBQ capitals of the world hands-down.
The Canopy’s menu is online at their website, so feel free to place your orders whenever you’re ready.
If you’re a BBQ enthusiast who’s looking to learn more about this iconic cooking style, then MasterClass has you covered with this interesting dive into Central Texas food culture.
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