The Mayfair Dressing is one of my all-time favorite salad dressings. This condiment is a creamy, tangy blend that perfectly balances the richness.
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Mayfair Salad dressing recipe
Mayfair dressing is a rich, creamy, anchovy-based salad dressing. It originated at the Mayfair Hotel in St. Louis, Missouri, around 1935. It was created by Chef Fred Bangerter.

The Mayfair Hotel popularized this dressing as a signature dish in its restaurant, The Mayfair Room. Over time, it has become a beloved staple in St. Louis. This creamy, anchovy-based dressing established a new standard for American salad dressings.
Mayfair dressing is known for its rich, savory, and slightly tangy flavor. It is frequently compared to Caesar dressing but with distinct differences. It was made with the umami richness of anchovies with creamy elegance. The garlic and mustard enhance the bold flavor profile.
You can use this salad dressing on salads like the Mayfair Salad, BLT Salad, and Club Salad, as well as potato salads and fresh crudités. It also enhances grilled or roasted veggies like asparagus and Brussels sprouts.
The Mayfair dressing is perfect with proteins like chicken, shrimp, and salmon, it works as a sandwich spread too. Pair it with crunchy toppings like nuts or croutons and fresh herbs for balance.
Here’s how to make the Mayfair salad dressing:

Mayfair dressing
Nutrition
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp anchovy paste or 2-3 anchovy fillets, mashed
- 1 garlic clove minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt optional, depending on taste
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and white wine vinegar.
- Add the anchovy paste (or mashed fillets) and minced garlic.
- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and salt.
- Whisk all the ingredients together until smooth and well combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—add more vinegar for tang or more mustard for kick.
- Serve immediately over a salad or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
variations
Different ingredients can transform traditional Mayfair dressing into unique flavor profiles. Here are some unique variations:
- Light Version
- Using Greek yogurt base
- Incorporating fresh herbs
- Reducing oil content
- Vegetarian Versions replace anchovies with capers.
- Curry Mayfair Dressing combines curry powder for an exotic flavor.
- Curry powder brings warmth and spice to the dressing.
- Liquid smoke adds a subtle smoky flavor.
- Original Mayfair dressing uses raw egg instead of mayonnaise.
- Parmesan Addition adds cheesy umami, closer to Caesar flavor.