The Melting Pot (restaurant)

American fondue restaurant chain

The Melting Pot is a chain of franchised fondue restaurants located across the United States. The restaurant offers a unique dining experience centered around the communal enjoyment of fondue, a Swiss dish of melted cheese served in a communal pot.

History

The first Melting Pot restaurant opened in Maitland, Florida in 1975. It was founded by brothers Mark, Mike, and Bob Johnston. The original menu consisted of just three items: Swiss cheese fondue, beef fondue, and a chocolate fondue dessert. The concept quickly gained popularity, leading to the opening of additional locations.

In 1981, the Johnston brothers began franchising the concept, allowing for rapid expansion across the United States. By the late 1990s, The Melting Pot had become a well-known brand in the casual dining sector, known for its interactive dining experience.

Dining Experience

The Melting Pot logo

The Melting Pot offers a unique dining experience where guests can enjoy a variety of fondue styles. The meal typically consists of a four-course experience, including a cheese fondue, a salad, an entrée, and a chocolate fondue dessert.

Cheese Fondue

The meal begins with a cheese fondue, which is prepared at the table. Guests can choose from a variety of cheese blends, such as Swiss, cheddar, or gorgonzola. The cheese is melted in a pot and served with an assortment of dippers, including bread, vegetables, and fruits.

Salad

Following the cheese fondue, guests are served a salad. The Melting Pot offers a selection of salads, each with its own unique dressing and toppings.

Entrée

The main course consists of a variety of meats, seafood, and vegetables that guests cook at the table in a pot of boiling broth or oil. The Melting Pot offers several cooking styles, including court bouillon, coq au vin, and bourguignonne.

Chocolate Fondue

The meal concludes with a chocolate fondue dessert. Guests can choose from a variety of chocolate blends, such as milk, dark, or white chocolate. The chocolate is served with an assortment of dippers, including fruits, marshmallows, and cakes.

Locations

The Melting Pot in Tallahassee, Florida

As of 2023, The Melting Pot operates over 100 locations across the United States. The restaurants are primarily located in urban and suburban areas, catering to a diverse clientele seeking a unique dining experience.

Related Pages

• Fondue
• Casual dining restaurant
• Franchising