Switzerland is a country famous for it’s cheese and chocolate, so it only follows that fondue would have originated there. Fondue has been a Swiss National Dish for over 100 years. In the 1970’s, fondue became popular in the United States and fondue pots and forks started popping up in kitchens all across the country. It only follows then, that in 1975, a fondue restaurant by the name of The Melting Pot opened in Florida. At that time, only three items were on the menu: Swiss cheese fondue, beef fondue and a chocolate fondue dessert. In 1979, three brothers Mark, Mike, and Bob Johnston opened another location in Tallahassee, then Tampa. The restaurant has been growing ever since with franchise locations all over, and even internationally now in Canada and Mexico.
It wasn’t until 1997 that Scottsdale got it’s first taste of this addicting food. Today, the menu has lots more than just three items. From meats to salads to fruits, vegetables, and artisan bread, The Melting Pot Scottsdale has everything you could hope for. Though some people stop in for a quick cheese or chocolate fondue, most make an evening of it and order the four course experience. The experience lets you choose a cheese fondue that is served with fresh seasonal veggies and artisan bread for dipping, then you choose a fresh salad. Whether you like California, House, Spinach Mushroom or Caesar salad, they all come with The Melting Pot’s signature salad dressing. Next, it’s time for your entree. There are many different broth bases you can choose from to suit your individual taste, as there are entrees to choose from. With selections like filet mignon, shrimp, lobster, chicken and more, there’s something for everyone. There are even vegetarian and gluten-free choices. Then finish off your meal with the fourth course which is chocolate fondue. Even the chocolate comes in many flavors here with the most interesting being the Yin & Yang which is a combination of white and dark chocolate shaped exactly like the symbol it’s named for. Have the perfect drink to go with your perfect meal. The ample wine list features reds, whites, blushes, and sparkling from all over the world, or have a handcrafted cocktail unique to The Melting Pot.
Everything seems perfect here. Even the dining room is almost as great as the food. Brightly colored fondue forks instead of silverware come wrapped in cloth napkins. There are tables and booths for large or small parties, and for the most intimate experience, reserve a booth on lovers lane. There are a limited number of ultra private booths with just enough room for two to sit and dine. The booth is situated in an alcove with one side containing the table top, and the other the booth seat. A curtain is able to be pulled to give you and your sweetheart the ultimate in privacy and romance. The Melting Pot is very happy to help you make your experience as memorable as possible. Different packages are offered including balloons, roses, and photo frames for you to capture your experience for a lifetime. Your server will always be happy to take your picture for your frame, and put it on their website with your permission. Don’t be afraid to bring the little ones. The Melting Pot is fun for kids of all ages, and even holds fun times at different parts of the year with delightful characters like the Easter Bunny, Santa Claus, or even Disney Princesses so feel free to bring the whole family.
The Melting Pot is very community oriented. Besides holding special events like those for holidays, or Ladies’ Night, they also support St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital here in the valley. Each November and December, they make donations to the children. During the rest of the year, chocolate wafers help. For each $5 box of chocolate fondue wafers purchased from the website, $1 is given to the hospital. Peruse the website for ways to take your experience home with you. The website has their signature salad dressing, garlic and wine seasoning, a cookbook, and more for sale. Gift cards are also available. Join their Club Fondue online for specials, news, and a great treat just for you on your birthday. So come have a great time, and feel good about where you are. The fondue experience is one not easily forgotten.