Duke’s “Hot Tomato Summer” returns to Charleston

The annual 10-day celebration of mayo and tomatoes is the best way to celebrate tomato season.

Three cheese pies made with tomatoes on a tray.

The Royal American is making mini tomato pies with local heirloom tomatoes.

Photo courtesy of The Royal American

Tomatoes and mayo are an iconic southern summer pairing. For the fifth year, Duke’s Mayo is bringing back its celebration of that very duo — Hot Tomato Summer.

What is Hot Tomato Summer?

The 10-day event invites local restaurants to whip up their most creative recipes, and will happen this year from Thursday, July 17, through Sunday, July 27. The only rule? They must use Duke’s Mayo and tomatoes.

This mouthwatering photo showcases a grilled chicken melt loaded with gooey cheese, sautéed peppers, and savory sauce on toasted bread. It's served with crispy fries and topped with tiny pickles.

Our mouths are already watering; we can’t wait to try this sandwich.

Photo by Félix Cocktails et Cuisine

Which restaurants are participating?

With 80+ participating restaurants in the Charleston area, here are just a few of our recommendations.

  • Félix Cocktails et Cuisine | Grilled Chicken Melt | The perfect summer sandwich is... sun-dried tomatoes, tomato and bacon jam, and roasted garlic Duke’s aioli on a hoagie roll.
  • 167 Raw Oyster Bar | Caviar BLT | The umami will be strong in this dish featuring lardo iberico, Regiis Ova Hybrid Caviar, and smoked tomato mayo.
  • Heavy’s Barburger | Heavy’s BLT | This sandwich is going to take two hands to contain as it’s stacked with fresh local tomatoes, applewood smoked bacon + lettuce with Duke’s Mayo on Normandy Farm Sourdough.

Check out the other local spots and what they’re offering; just tap the Charleston tab at the top of the page.

How can I take part?

During the event, dine at the participating restaurants and try the mayo + tomato-themed specials. You’ll get the chance to vote online for your favorite dish to win the “Golden Tomato” award.

Psst... there’s also Hot Tomato Summer merch. (Because we all need a mayo jar pool floatie.)

More from CHStoday
The Holy City got its annual, unsurprising foodie recognition from the prestigious James Beard Foundation. Let’s take a closer look.
You shared some local businesses that stole your heart before they closed their doors for good.
Honor the civil rights leader’s legacy by learning about his connection to the Palmetto State.
The latest nostalgic trend has people looking back at photos from a decade ago. What was Charleston like?
Move aside pickleball, there’s a new racket sport in town.
The bread type is more popular than ever. We’re here to help you find the best loves in the Holy City, or to start making your own.
We asked readers to send us photos of their Charleston-resident pets, and they delivered. Here’s our roundup of Holy City pups.
Dozens of local eateries are taking part, and we’re here to give you the lowdown on the Lowcountry’s best deals.
Different cities and regions have plenty of localized menu items. Now it’s time for cookies to join the fray.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.