The Best Mayonnaise, According to Our Taste Test

Mayonnaise is a divisive condiment. You either love it, using it as the foundation for nearly every sandwich, the crisping agent for grilled cheese, and the key to creaminess in your potato salads — or you hate it. But have these haters considered that, perhaps, they’ve just been eating the wrong mayo all along? Even folks who adore mayonnaise have their favorites — the brands that they swear by, forswearing all others. At Food & Wine, we put more than 30 store-bought brands to the test to determine, once and for all, which are the greatest mayos of them all.

Best overall: Duke’s Real Mayonnaise 

We can understand why there is such a loyal following for this South Caroline-based mayo. Duke’s uses egg yolks only, making it creamy, but not so viscous that it sticks to the roof of your mouth. Where it really shines is its generous use of vinegar — the combination of distilled and cider vinegars adds a balancing zing that cuts through the richness. Duke’s can be the supporting character or the star of the show in just about any dish, thanks to that reliable “twang.” $7 for a 30-ounce jar at dukesmayo.com

Best for sandwiches: Hellmann’s Real Mayonnaise (aka Best Foods Mayonnaise)

Hellmann’s is the platonic ideal of a mayonnaise, with a mild, slightly sweet flavor that’s balanced by a touch of lemon and a hint of salt. Add a schmear to your next BLT, or use it to dress a lobster roll; it’ll add richness and moisture without overpowering other flavors on the sandwich. What more could you want in a mayo? $16 for three 30-ounce jars at amazon.com

Best for salads: Kewpie Mayonnaise

When you want an oomph of umami, turn to Kewpie Mayonnaise. This Japanese condiment is seasoned with the ultimate flavor booster, MSG — making it a power move for mayo-based salads. Made with yolks only, it’s has an extra-creamy texture and eggy flavor. Plus, the star-shaped dispenser found on some packages will make your mayo cuter than you ever thought mayo could be. $12 for two 18-ounce tubes at amazon.com

Best for dipping: Stonewall Kitchen Farmhouse Mayo

Want a mayo that feels more like an aioli? Stonewall Kitchen has you covered. Their Farmhouse Mayo is velvety with an appearance akin to an artisanal butter. It’s made with few ingredients, letting its only seasoning — mustard powder — define its flavor profile. It’s the perfect condiment for your french fries or potato chips. $10 for a 10-ounce jar at stonewallkitchen.com

Best grocery store brand: Good & Gather Organic Mayonnaise

While you may not need to go out of your way to get this jar, Target’s brand Good & Gather has every other major house-brand mayo beat. This mayonnaise has a light, loose texture and is simultaneously egg-forward, lightly sweet, and punchy — all important characteristics of a good mayo. It’s a solid, accessible option for whenever you need a basic mayonnaise. $8 for a 15-ounce jar at target.com

Best vegan: Follow Your Heart Original Vegenaise

Thickened with mustard flour, this dairy-free, vegan product may not taste like a classic mayo, but it is delicious. Follow Your Heart’s Vegenaise is light, silky, and tangy, with a body and flavor that’s reminiscent of crème fraîche. Whether you’re vegan or just not a fan of classic mayonnaise, this is an excellent alternative. $7 for a 14-ounce jar at amazon.com)