Because community is everywhere.

We founded Mustard Magazine as a space to showcase Chicago artists of all kinds, from musicians, painters and filmmakers to poets and chefs. Created in 2024 by Chicago-based writers and journalists, Mustard is just one of many online spheres highlighting the people who make Chicago a city unlike any other.

But why Mustard? For one, we know that sometimes the best condiments—er—people, are outshined by their more popular counterparts (we’re looking at you, ketchup). To put it simply, Mustard encompasses everything we associate with Chicago: It’s scrappy, it’s determined, it’s got bite—and it makes a mean hot dog even better.

To be honest, though, we don’t care what you put on your buns. Mustard simply recognizes the hustle of local artists—whether they’re just starting out or are household names—and gives them a platform to shine. After all, if something cuts the mustard, you know it’s going to be good.

We hope you join us on this journey and enjoy reading about all the different people who make this giant Chicago community possible.

So go ahead.

Put some mustard on it.