Mayo x Mayo: Japanese Sweets with a Mayonnaise Twist! [Taste Test] (2026)

Mayo x Mayo, a unique Japanese sweet shop in Kobe, has been making waves with its unconventional creations. The shop's name itself hints at its specialty: combining traditional Japanese sweets with mayonnaise. This unexpected fusion has piqued the interest of food enthusiasts and curious locals alike.

The concept of 'original' in Japan is intriguing. It doesn't necessarily mean revolutionary, but rather something unique to a specific place. Mayo x Mayo embodies this idea perfectly. The shop offers a range of wagashi, traditional Japanese sweets, with a twist. One of their signature dishes is mitarashi dango, mochi dumplings slathered with sweet soy sauce glaze, but with a surprising addition - a generous amount of mayonnaise.

Our reporter, Haruka Takagi, who isn't a self-proclaimed mayo enthusiast, was tasked with the taste test. To her delight, the mayonnaise and mitarashi glaze complemented each other surprisingly well. The creamy texture of the Japanese mayonnaise, with its minimal sourness, created a delightful contrast with the sweet and salty flavors of the glaze. This unique combination didn't fight for dominance but rather enhanced the overall taste experience.

Mayo x Mayo's creativity doesn't stop at dango. They also offer daifuku, another type of mochi dumpling, with a twist. The daifuku comes with a cream cheese anko filling, but with a surprising addition of mayonnaise. The result? A rich, creamy dessert with a subtle hint of saltiness. Haruka, who tried both the black and white daifuku, was pleasantly surprised by the unique flavor profiles.

The shop's original mayonnaise is available in pouches and glass jars, and it's not just for desserts. Haruka's experimentation with other foods proved that it works well as a conventional condiment. While the shop is based in Kobe, it's now accessible online, allowing mayonnaise lovers across Japan to try this unique product.

Mayo x Mayo's innovative approach to Japanese sweets challenges conventional wisdom and offers a delightful culinary experience. It's a testament to the creativity that can arise when traditional flavors meet unexpected ingredients. This shop is a must-visit for those seeking unique and memorable taste adventures.