New Restaurant Serves Up Fantastic Fondue

In my house, fondue is a New Year's tradition. The family gathers around the table to enjoy an evening of truly unique and enjoyable dining. The Melting Pot, however, provides an unmatched fondue experience.

History

Fondue comes from the French word fondre, which means "to melt." It originated in Switzerland as a way melt hardened cheese, according to TheMeltingPot.com. Over the years, it has evolved into a full course meal.

How It's Done

For those of you who aren't familiar with fondue, it is a type of hands on dining. Cheeses, chocolates and different oils are heated right before your very eyes for you to dip breads or cook meats and vegetables.

The Restaurant

When you walk inside, you immediately feel at home. A smiling hostess awaits you at the podium. The lights are dimmed throughout the restaurant and the atmosphere is classy but relaxed. I was seated in a large booth, but on my journey, I noticed numerous tables fit for four or more and even romantic two person booths. The tables were black marble with square fondue grills on top.

In the back of the restaurant, a large covered patio awaits diners. A waterfall provides soothing sounds and ceiling fans and lights are expected soon.

There is a beautiful bar where you can enjoy a drink while you wait. Giftcards are also available.

Dinner Time

I sat down in the oversized booth not knowing what to expect. Appetizers, entrees, desserts, it all looked so appealing. The list of fine wines was impeccable, I had no idea where to start.

Then, a friendly young lady walked up to my table and introduced herself as the server for the evening. She was welcoming and friendly and gave everyone at the table a few minutes to look over the menu. When she returned with our drinks, she explained everything we would need to know and provided excellent recommendations.

After much deliberation, I decided on the Fondue for Two and shared with a friend. Fondue for two is by far one of the best deals at The Melting Pot. It includes a cheese fondue, salad and entrée course all for $55. There are two $55 options with the Surf & Turf at market price.

I chose the Fiesta Cheese Fondue as my appetizer, a Chef's salad and the Pacific Rim as my entrée. The Fiesta Cheese fondue compares to a traditional Mexican cheese queso, but with a whole new twist. It has cheddar cheese with the flavor of Mexican herbs, jalapeno peppers, and a touch of salsa. The Pacific Rim includes teriyaki marinated choice sirloin, shrimp, peppered pork tenderloin, marinated breast of duck, boneless breast of chicken and potstickers. The rest of my dining party chose the Traditional Swiss Cheese Fondue, Chef's salad and Surf & Turf entrée. Traditional Swiss Cheese Fondue has gruyere and emmenthaler Swiss cheeses, white wine, a touch of garlic, nutmeg, fresh lemon and Kirschwasser all melted together. For this particular evening, the Surf and Turf was $80 and included four lobster tails, tender medallions of filet mignon and Portobello mushrooms. Another wonderful deal.

Minutes after placing the order, our waitress brought out a huge tray full of cheese and all the mix-ins. Right before our eyes she began making our cheese fondues. She explained each ingredient and what its role was in creating the ultimate appetizer. As we watched the cheese melt, three fresh breads, vegetables, apples and tortilla chips were placed on the table for dipping. An amazing aroma filled the air in our booth as we speared the bread and dipped away.

The bowls of bread and apples began getting a little low, but before we knew it, they were refilled. Only the finest breads, vegetables, fruits and chips are used, and the best part is, they are all endless!

Our waitress cleared the table and left us to sit. The Chef's salad was delectable in every way. Crisp lettuce with Roma tomatoes, sliced cucumbers and eggs, ham and Emmenthaler cheese was topped off with a heavenly tangy house dressing. It was the perfect finish to an outstanding appetizer. There was just enough time in between the cheese fondue and the salads to let the food settle and prepare for the next course.

Our entrees were making their way to our booth. Even though it was all uncooked, it looked fantastic. The Melting Pot allows the customer to choose their desired cooking style when it comes to entrees. The two most popular are Coq au Vin Fondue and Mojo Fondue. We insisted on both.

The Coq au Vin Fondue combines fresh herbs, mushrooms, garlic, imported spices and a Burgundy Wine. The Mojo Fondue is more of the Caribbean themed oil with a hint of orange, lime and garlic that combine to make a seductive flavor for your cooking.

Everything was beyond delicious. I am usually not a big fan of lobster, but mixed with a sensational oil, I couldn't help but claiming an entire tail for myself. The entrees came with mushrooms, fresh broccoli, yellow squash, potatoes and a variety of amazing sauces for dipping. Again, the vegetables and sauces were endless.

With every new item I tried, I grew more in love. Our large booth was full of all varieties of food that disappeared by the minute. However, no one was too full to pass up dessert.

Dessert

We chose the Pure Chocolate fondue and the Chocolate S'mores. There are no words to describe just how wonderful they both were. They surpassed the scrumptious lobster tails and headed into a league of their own. Some things are better left as a surprise, and I'm insisting that you go and try for yourself.

Important Things to Know

The Melting Pot provides exceptional service and unparalleled taste topped off by a comfortable atmosphere. The meal took almost three hours, but it passed quickly. We all walked away extremely satisfied.

The owner of The Melting Pot encourages reservations. Plan to take at least two hours for your experience. If it is just cheese or chocolate fondue that you are craving, feel free to drop by and indulge.

You can find The Melting Pot in the Portofino shopping center just a few stores down from Buffalo Wild Wings. Whether you desire a romantic night out with your significant other or want to entertain many, head over to The Melting Pot and "Dip into something different."