JT was born in Palmer Lake, but he was young when his father moved the family to central Texas. Growing up, JT was surrounded by the best BBQ in the world and was inspired to start his own tasty journey by going to culinary school in Austin, TX. After graduation, he returned to Palmer Lake to help his aunt with her catering business for the next few years. But a true chef’s journey is never over, so he continued to explore every corner of the country, from being a fishmonger in Texas to a camp chef in the Alaskan wilderness.

JT then set his sights on New York City, where he spent the next ten years. Settling in Brooklyn, he learned the restaurant and bar business working at the Brooklyn Ice House in the bustling neighborhood of Red Hook. It was in this tight knit neighborhood where he met his future fiancée, Maria, and where he met the James Beard semi-finalist, Billy Durney at Hometown BBQ. JT was inspired Billy’s blend of Central Texas BBQ classics and other BBQ-inspired dishes from around the world.

When the pandemic hit, JT and Maria decided to leave the crowded city and return to Colorado to be closer to nature. Call it fate, but after returning to the Palmer Lake area, they stumbled on a fantastic opportunity. A longtime local favorite, La Rosa Southwest Cuisine, was looking to close its doors, leaving a prime spot open in downtown Palmer Lake.

There was no question that with strong local roots and a desire to put his own stamp on the local food scene, JT and Maria decided to open their first restaurant. Named after the hiker’s paradise, Sundance Mountain, Sundance Pit BBQ is Central Texas Style BBQ infused with global flair. With his offset smoker and the finest post oak available, you’ll find the classics like brisket, pulled pork, and ribs. Still, true to his vision, you’ll find his menu specials that are classics with a twist, inspired by his travels, such as Brisket Philly Cheesesteak, Pastrami Bacon Sandwiches, Brisket Reubens and Bahn Mi’s, and Korean Sticky Ribs.

Come by and join JT and Maria on their culinary journey. You can order ahead and takeaway to eat by the lake or grab a chair at the bar and enjoy with a beer.

“It was one of the best smoked turkeys we have enjoyed in some time.”

Theresa Farney – The Gazette