The Mustard Club feels, to me, quintessentially Birmingham—which is perhaps one of the highest compliments I can give, considering what a force-of-nature food city Birmingham has become. Tucked into the heart of Pepper Place where Blue Root once stood, it strikes a balance between neighborhood hangout and thoughtful, ingredient-driven meals, all perfectly suited for a quick bite or a meal with friends.
The restaurant quietly opened earlier this month, and on my first visit, I ordered the ham and comté pressed sandwich. With caramelized onions and coarse-grain mustard, it was the kind of dish I could return to again and again. I also tried the whipped feta with flatbread, layered with spiced dates, honey, pistachios, and lemon. The flavors were bright and textured, instantly transporting me back to travels through Istanbul—deceptively simple, yet perfectly balanced.
Behind the scenes are husband-and-wife team Chris Newsome and Anna Newsome , known to many in Birmingham for their previous restaurant, Ollie Irene. With The Mustard Club, they’re building something new—very much grounded in their hospitality experience, but designed for everyday life. I spoke with Anna Newsome about the vision behind the space, how it’s evolving, and what they hope guests take away from each visit.
Q: What can guests expect from the menu at The Mustard Club? How does it reflect your experience from Ollie Irene?
(The Mustard Club/Contributed)…