About Us
Our
Story
About Us
Welcome to DAMO BBQ Butchery and Boutique, where passion meets flavor in every bite. Originating from the vibrant community of Villa Park, IL, our story is one of friendship, family, and a shared love for culinary creativity.
Our Roots
Dan and Maggie Orlando, the heart and soul behind DAMO BBQ, have a rich history that stretches back to their childhood days across the street from one another. Dan, the youngest of six, and Maggie, the youngest of eight, found themselves intertwined in a community where family and food were inseparable.
Danny's mother, Barb, fondly recalls Maggie as the little girl who watched Danny from the corner, while Danny remembers Maggie as the playful, pesky younger sister of his friends. Despite their early antics, Danny couldn't resist the charm of that spirited redhead, and their bond grew stronger with time.
A Culinary Journey
Family meals were a cornerstone in both households. Danny's father, Bob, instilled in him a deep appreciation for cooking, as he prepared Sunday gravy for the family. Meanwhile, Maggie's mother, Mary Ellen, taught her the value of a bustling, welcoming table. These experiences cultivated their love for cooking and hosting, which only intensified when they married.
Realizing their talent and passion, Dan and Maggie knew they were destined to share their culinary creations with a broader audience. What began with cooking for family gatherings evolved into a vibrant community experience, drawing friends and neighbors to their table for what they affectionately called R & D (Research and Development).
The Birth of DAMO BBQ
In pursuit of their dream, Dan and Maggie embarked on a journey to establish a mobile BBQ business. With entrepreneurial spirit, they launched DJO Signs & Such LLC in 2020, creating custom woodworking from reclaimed Bourbon and Wine Barrels. However, their vision expanded further when they decided to bring their BBQ passion to life.
Their initial venture into a food truck turned into a financial challenge, but their determination never wavered. Pivoting with resilience, they launched pop-up events and transformed their trailer into a mobile kitchen. Their dedication and unique culinary flair quickly made DAMO BBQ a favorite at local markets, breweries, vineyards, and festive gatherings.
Our Vision
Today, DAMO BBQ is celebrated for its intimate, flavorful touch on private events, holiday parties, business luncheons, baby showers, and weddings. The rave reviews and referrals have propelled our business forward, and we are thrilled to announce the upcoming opening of our brick-and-mortar location DAMO BBQ Butchery and Boutique in Pingree Grove in Spring 2025.
Join us on this delicious journey as we expand our menu and events, bringing mouthwatering BBQ to even more people. We invite you to be part of the DAMO family, where every meal is crafted with love and every guest is treated like family. Follow our story and savor the flavors that make DAMO BBQ truly special.