The Melting Pot is the nation’s largest fondue restaurant franchise, specializing in a leisurely, four- course dining experience comprised of cheese, salad, entrée and dessert.
The company’s Chattanooga location in the new Waterside Lifestyle Shopping Center at 2553 Lifestyle Way celebrated its opening with a ribbon cutting Tuesday.
The Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce helped with arrangements for the event.
The 5,200 square-foot restaurant, which opened to the public Wednesday, includes a private patio which can seat up to 60 guests.
Owners Michelle and Thane Rice said they fell in love with the Melting Pot restaurant style concept four years ago in Delaware and decided to purchase a franchise.
The Rices liked the relaxed
atmosphere, where dining can last from an hour and a half to two and a half hours. They also liked the attentive service, fine wines and signature fondue dinners.
“We’re offering a new concept in dining for the community,” Thane Rice said. “The focus is offering the best service, great food and an extensive wine selection. All staff are highly knowledgeable about wine.”
Food offered is a blend of seafood, pork, chicken, steak and vegetables. “We’re hoping Chattanoogans will want to dip into something different,” the owners say.
The Rices searched all over the U.S. before deciding Chattanooga was the best fit.
“Chattanooga offers a lot for families and new businesses,” Michelle Rice said. “We chose the location off Shallowford Road because it’s easy and convenient for customers.”
The Melting Pot is open Monday through Wednesday from 4:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., Thursday through Saturday 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday 4 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Contact Michelle Rice at 423 893-5237 or themeltingpotchattanooga@yahoo.com for more information.