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 new rooftop restaurant will overlook the Cooper River and offer coastal Italian dishes.
The waterfront home in Riverland Terrace was owned by the Halsey family of WB Halsey Lumber Company.
The land and building set to house a new Mount Pleasant restaurant and event space, Frank & Jack’s, have been listed.
This downtown bookshop, Philosophers & Fools, is inviting the Charleston community to celebrate two years of drinks, snacks, and books.
Carolopolis Awards honor both private and public projects that preserve that history.
V Modern Italian aims to “feed your senses,” from the bites to the DJ-curated soundtrack, every detail comes together for a fully immersive experience.
From fossils to wild animals, these ecotours will give you a front-row seat to Charleston’s outdoors.
Put your money where your community is and help us create a guide to small businesses by submitting your favorite local spots and sharing this page with a friend.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
Broaden your horizons and indulge in elevated fare with a tasting menu from one of these Charleston restaurants.