The Melting Pot restaurant has helped rekindle America's interest in fondue cooking. For a first-hand look at why, just go to any of their more than 130 establishments spread across 35 states. The food variety and the service are both superior, the atmosphere is quite nice, and although the prices are above average, you're paying for a unique cooking and dining experience.

HISTORY

The first Melting Pot restaurant opened in April of 1975 in Maitland, Florida, with a menu of only three items: Swiss cheese, beef, and chocolate. Waiter Mark Johnston, with help from his two brothers and permission from the original owner, expanded the fondue concept and opened locations in Tallahassee and Tampa. Mark, Mike, and Bob Johnston then decided to build on the growing success of the restaurants in 1985, when they bought all the rights and created a franchise called The Melting Pot Restaurants, Inc. The chain continues to flourish.

ATMOSPHERE

When you walk in, you'll notice the darkened waiting area, sometimes showcasing part of their wine collection behind glass. The warmth and aroma from diners' cooking pots gives a hint of the meal to come. If you have a reservation (recommended, especially on weekends and holidays), you'll be seated right away. If you do not have a reservation, the hosts will make every attempt to get you a table immediately.

Your semi-private area allows seating for up to four average-sized people, and the subdued atmosphere works well for a large party's celebration, or a couple's romantic dinner. Good conversation is easy to come by here.

One or two heating units will be in the middle of the table, much like traditional stovetop burners. Once your server turns this unit on, it will get quite hot, so keep all extremities away. (This fact alone might make you think twice before bringing rambunctious youngsters to the restaurant.) Your server will also tell you how fondue works, if you've never been there.

THE MEAL

Each Melting Pot menu features a four-course meal consisting of a cheese fondue appetizer, a salad, a meat/veggie fondue entree, and a chocolate fondue dessert. Each course offers a wide variety of cooking and dipping options, which your server will be happy to explain to you. All ingredients are listed for each menu selection.

Any particular Melting Pot may not provide every option described here, but will still offer a great variety. To see all the spices, ingredients and food items, go online (http://www.meltingpot.com/)

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