The Intersection of Fire and Discipline

Good barbecue is not defined by tenderness alone; it is defined by character.

There is a profound moment when a person chooses to step into the smoke not as a diner, but as a cook. This choice embraces heat, chaos, responsibility, and the necessity of real-time problem-solving. This is the journey Tyler Heath embarked upon when he joined Misfits Barbecue. Tyler is no amateur; he arrived as a classically trained Canadian chef, bringing years of line experience and ingrained standards, ready to immerse himself in the new world of barbecue. This fusion of worlds was clearly demonstrated during their recent pop-up residency at Round Trip Brewing.

However, this story transcends a single successful weekend. It is about the powerful intersection of two distinct crafts: the rigorous discipline of a chef and the primal intuition of a pitmaster. Chefs are trained to manage chaos; pitmasters are defined by it. Chefs measure flavor precisely; pitmasters gauge the flow of time. Chefs’ plate with focused intent; pitmasters serve with pure honesty. Yet, at their core, both share the fundamental identity of problem-solvers who nourish people through food.

This experience powerfully reminded us that barbecue is greater than the pit itself, it is the collective of people who choose to stand around it. Standing in that heat, the three of us discussed lessons learned, mistakes made, necessary improvements, and the fierce pride that comes from a team fighting for a shared, elevated vision.

This leads directly to my “Hot Take of the week”: the concept of tenderism.

While tenderness is undoubtedly important, it has been dangerously over-marketed, reduced to a buzzword, a shortcut, and a gimmick. We have reached a point where technique is judged solely by how easily a slice falls apart. This neglects the essential questions: Was the meat cooked with intention? Did it taste exceptional? Did the process honor the craft?

Good barbecue is not defined by tenderness alone; it is defined by character.

Ultimately, this week’s conversation centers on the character behind the craft: a chef who took a risk and embraced a new world; a team rebuilding from the ground up; a pop-up that challenged everyone to grow; a craft that rejects shortcuts; and a culture striving for balance between standards, soul, and sustainability.

Misfits Barbecue is now in its building phase, a process that absolutely demands pressure, complete honesty, and the presence of the right people surrounding the pit.