The Sweet and Tangy History of Mumbo Sauce

Mumbo sauce, a beloved condiment particularly popular in the Washington, D.C. Area, boasts a surprisingly rich history rooted in Chicago’s vibrant barbecue scene. While often associated with Chinese takeout and fried foods, the origins of this unique sauce trace back to Argia B. Collins Sr. and his quest for the perfect barbecue flavor.

From Chicago’s South Side to National Recognition

In the mid-1940s, Argia B. Collins, a veteran of the United States Navy, moved to Chicago’s west side and began working for his brother’s grocery store. Collins was one of six entrepreneurial brothers who opened rib joints across the city, known for their world-class barbecue [1]. In 1950, Collins established his own restaurant in Chicago’s historic Bronzeville neighborhood, eventually expanding to two more locations, including one in Gary, Indiana. Dissatisfied with the existing national barbecue sauce brands, Collins drew upon his Southern roots to craft a sauce that was sweet, tangy, and savory [1].

The Birth of MUMBO® Sauce

Collins’s culinary perfectionism led to experimentation with exotic spice and seasoning blends. His restaurant quickly became a test kitchen for what would become MUMBO® SAUCE. Customers began requesting extra portions of the sauce with their meals and even bringing in jars to take it home [1]. Recognizing the demand, Collins opened a manufacturing plant to produce and distribute his creation, initially to his restaurants, then to independent retailers, grocery chains, and other restaurants [1].

National Acclaim and Trademarking

MUMBO SAUCE gained national attention with a feature in LIFE Magazine in 1970 [1]. Argia B. Collins Sr. Secured the trademark for “Mumbo” in connection with his barbecue sauce, with the trademark being used as early as 1950 [3]. Select Brands, LLC, the successor-in-interest, registered the trademark with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office in 1999 [3].

The D.C. Connection and Beyond

While originating in Chicago, Mumbo sauce found a second home and distinct identity in Washington, D.C. Chinese restaurants in the area began serving a similar sauce, often used on chicken wings, french fries, and fried rice [3]. Capital City Mumbo Sauce claims the sauce originated in D.C. At a restaurant called “Wings-n-Things” in the late 1960s [3]. Select Brands has actively defended its trademark against other companies using the “Mumbo Sauce” name for sauces originating in Washington, D.C. [3].

Where to Find Mumbo Sauce Today

Today, Mumbo Sauce is available for purchase online at www.mumbosauce.com and through Amazon, as well as in major retailers like Walmart and Jewel-Osco [1].