Duke’s “Hot Tomato Summer” returns to Charleston

Tomatoes and mayo are an iconic southern pairing. For the fourth 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. The 10-day event, happening July 18 through July 28, invites local restaurants to whip up their most creative recipes. The only rule? They must use Duke’s Mayo and tomatoes.

Photo provided by Félix Cocktails et Cuisine

Which restaurants are participating?

With 70+ participating restaurants in the Charleston area. Here are just a few of our recommendations.

• Berkeley’s | Chicken BLT Sandwich | This sandwich features a generous crispy chicken cutlet topped with shredded iceberg, heirloom tomatoes, and bacon served on a potato bun with confit tomato and bacon Duke’s Mayo.
• Félix Cocktails et Cuisine | Crab Salad Sandwich | The perfect summer lunch is... a housemade crab salad, topped with tomato, arugula, and pickled red onions served with fries + Duke’s chipotle mayo.
• Beautiful South | Bourbon Chicken with Duke’s Fried Rice and Embered Tomatoes | Umami — This wok fried rice with Duke’s Mayo is topped with Jim Beam Bourbon chicken and smoked local cherry tomatoes.
• The Pass | The Pass B.L.T. | This sandwich is going to take two hands to contain as it’s stacked with burrata, prosciutto, butter-poached Maine lobster, heirloom tomato, roasted garlic aioli (made with Duke’s Mayo), and benne seed-potato chip truffle crunch.

Check out the other 69 local spots and what they’re offering; just tap the Charleston tab at the top of the page.

Photo provided by Beautiful South

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.)