Dine for Less Than $10 a Person at This Iconic Pit Beef Stand in Maryland

It doesn't get much better than pit beef when it comes to iconic Maryland meals. These thin-sliced roast beef sandwiches are as simple as they get, but oh-so delicious. I make sure to get one every time I'm in Maryland on my travels up and down the coast. The price has increased a bit over the years, but it's still worth it. For those looking to indulge on a budget, there's an affordable option not many know about. Pioneer Pit Beef is a classic roadside shack located in the outer Baltimore suburb of Catonsville, and it not only serves delicious pit beef, but its entire menu may be the best cheap eats in Maryland.

Catonsville is one of the more laid-back suburbs of Baltimore. It is located on the western outskirts and is home to around 42,000 people. Despite this population, it has many great small businesses and local charm, including one of the best spots for Maryland pit beef.

What is pit beef, and what sets it apart from other barbecue? The lean beef roast is smoked whole and then carved, giving it a tenderness reminiscent of roast beef but with a more robust, smoky flavor. It's best savored in a simple sandwich that lets the meat sing. It's one of the Baltimore food traditions many of us grew up with.

The menu here is as simple as it gets — pit beef sandwiches of various sizes, as well as BBQ pork, plus pit ham and pit turkey. If you're not in the mood for a sandwich, you can have the meats as a platter instead, all for less than $10. Pioneer Pit Beef may be one of the most affordable restaurants in Maryland!

There are only a few sides here, including the famous gravy fries, the perfect indulgent complement to the meats. Cole slaw, pickles, and fries without gravy are also offered. It's very easy to have a meal here for less than $10, and it's a great way to sample the best of iconic Maryland food without breaking the bank.

Have you dined at Pioneer Pit Beef? What are your favorite cheap eats in Maryland? Let us know by sending a message through our nomination page.

Pioneer Pit Beef is a low-key location with no website or social media, so they're counting on word of mouth to bring in new customers. Tell a friend about this article and try this hidden gem for yourself! If you're stopping by in the middle of a road trip, the nearby Holiday Inn Express Baltimore West - Catonsville is an affordable option ideal for families.

If you're planning a trip to Maryland and looking for budget-friendly options, check out how to explore Baltimore for less than $50 a day. My favorite? Perusing the collections at The Walters Art Museum, which is always free to visit.

Feeling inspired for more? Try planning your own Maryland foodie trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.