Mustard’s (last minute) holiday gift guide
Welcome, fellow procrastinators! Still looking for that perfect gift? Keep scrolling for the best 10 local gifts crafted by Chicago makers from all over the city.
For the artsy coffee lover: Funky coffee mugs by Garrett Luczak
We first noticed Garrett Luczak’s eccentric, colorful designs at Archie’s fall neighborhood market in October. The local art teacher infuses a childlike whimsy into his creations, be it handmade ceramics, geometric paintings, or Grateful Dead screenprints. We especially love his coffee mugs, which make busy morning routines feel a little lighter. $40, Buddy Chicago at the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St.
For the mixologist: Raspberry rose cocktail bitters by Aged and Infused
The duo behind West Town’s Happy Hour Shop brings their penchant for all things boozy to their spirited housemade cocktail brand, Aged and Infused. Impress your friend that loves to imbibe with these aromatic raspberry rose cocktail bitters. Just a dash or two will do. $18, The Happy Hour Shop, 1919 W. Chicago Ave.
For the tote fanatic: “Made possible by immigrants” tote bag by Bueno Days
We all have that friend who can never have too many tote bags. This 13 oz. garment-dyed bull denim carry-all is made in LA, comes in a head-swerving fire-engine red, and sports a message we’re proud to carry on our shoulders. Stop by the Little Village coffee shop for drinks you can’t get anywhere else — like the Elotito, with smoked corn and tortilla milk — and pick up a tote or tee to spread the message while you’re there. 25 percent of merch sales go toward the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights. $60, Bueno Days, 2901 W. Cermak Rd.
For the spice addict: Nam Prik Pao Thai-roasted chili jam by Pink Salt Kitchens
Handmade in small batches, this smoky, sweet and spicy chili jam is a love letter to the bold flavors of Thai cuisine. Elevate a simple salad, stir-fry or cheese board with a drizzle of this tangy condiment — it’s an unexpected twist of umami flavor that will cure the bland winter blues. $14, Here Here Market, 2021 W. Fulton St.
For the proud Chicagoan: “Thank you for supporting the Hood” hoodie by Definitive Selection
The streetwear-obsessed team behind Pilsen’s Definitive Collective delivers the goods with their hand-painted bodega sign hoodie, familiar to anyone and everyone with a beloved corner store on their block. Stay warm and support the hood in a style that’s uniquely Chicago. $55, Definitive Selection, 1745 W. 18th St.
For the chef-in-training: The Lula Cafe Cookbook
Chef Jason Hammel showcases the eclectic vibe and iconic farm-to-table dishes of Logan Square’s Lula Cafe in this vibrant debut cookbook. Recreate their signature Yiayia Pasta, an alluring combination of butter, garlic and cinnamon, that’s sure to indulge your inner chef. $49, Lula Cafe, 2537 N. Kedzie Blvd.
For the fancy food enthusiast: Edible dried flower petals from Wilderhouse
It’s said that you eat with your eyes first. When the owners of Wicker Park’s Wilderhouse created their intoxicating blend of edible rose, jasmine, marigold and daisy petals, they gave us a visual feast. Sprinkle these local, sustainable flowers onto your favorite culinary creations or cocktails for a splash of color and texture — because every dish deserves to feel fancy. $34, Wilderhouse, 1339 N. Damen Ave.
For the mysterious scent lover: City of the Night candle by Tatine
If you’ve ever wondered what Jim Morrison’s spirit smelled like, this candle was made to evoke that very memory. Dark, intense notes of hinoki oil, cypress and charred vetiver mingle with evocative woody florals and leather. Created in Avondale’s soulful Tatine Atelier, City of the Night makes a perfect gift for someone drawn to the ethereal essence of a lost angel or the whisper of a timeless tune. $62, Fleur, 2651 N. Milwaukee Ave.
For the perpetually stoned: Herbert magazine by The Public Media Institute
The latest publication from the minds at PMI (a Buddy System project and literary arm of the Marz Brewing universe) is a heady venture into all things green. Ready to get weird? Bring Herbert with you on your next toke sesh — you never know where Chicago’s new ganja guide will take you. $10, Shuga Records, Wicker Park, 1272 N. Milwaukee Ave., Logan Square, 3306 W. Armitage Ave.
For the chocoholic: Sleep Walk drinking chocolate by Dark Matter
If you’ve ever ordered a Mexican mocha or hot chocolate from one of Dark Matter’s many Chicago-wide locations, you know just how addictive this stuff is. Made with a special blend of Mexican cacao and roasted locally, Sleep Walk’s drinking chocolate consists of just three ingredients: cacao, sugar and vanilla bean. You’ll never reach for Swiss Miss again. $22, Dark Matter, multiple locations.
