I first heard about the Melting Pot from a friend who had taken his girlfriend there for Valentine's Day. He explained it was a restaurant specializing in fondue. I have absolutely no idea why, but everyone loves fondue and it is a universally agreed upon fact that this is one of the most enjoyable ways to eat (probably because its so child-like and allows you feel like you are getting away with something). Where else would it be socially acceptable to eat massive amounts of cheese and chocolate with a stick? I rest my case.
Last week I went with two girlfriends to the Melting Pot on Arlington Street in downtown Boston. It is adjacent to the Park Plaza hotel (not too shabby). We were seated in a comfortable, spacious, black leather booth with a spectacular view of Arlington Street. It was one of the warmest Spring days and the street was bustling with people.
We were greeted by our friendly server who offered to take our drink order. We requested one glass of Malbec, one glass of Pinot Grigio and one glass of white wine sangria. Both wines were delicious and the sangria came served with a cornucopia of fruit.
We started by ordering a pot of cheddar cheese fondue. The Melting Pot has about eight different cheese selections, including a spinach and artichoke option which I hope to sample on my next trip.
Our waitress prepared all the ingredients for our cheese sauce right before our eyes at the table - cheese, beer and a few spices. Then she placed three small bowls on the table with cubes of bread, green apple slices and bite size vegetable pieces for dipping. She had barely turned to walk away before we each had a piece of bread swimming in the hot lava of cheesy goodness.
For our second course we ordered salad. The house salad comes with a medley of vegetables, shredded cheese, hard boiled egg and crunchy, seasoned croutons. It was the perfect interlude between two decadent courses.
We closed the meal with a chocolate fondue. Of all the choices (eight in total) we picked "The Original" which is milk chocolate with peanutbutter crunch pieces. The treats provided for dipping are: brownies, pound cake, cheesecake, marshmallows, rice krispie treats, strawberries and bananas. Now, I know what you are thinking, that is impossible. Nope, its just the usual.
As if the dessert spread wasn't impressive enough, we had mentioned to the waitress we were celebrating a birthday, and she put a mini plate of goodies, complete with a candle in the center, right in front of the birthday girl. We let out a collective "Awwww!" when we saw the glowing plate coming toward us.
Although each course was rich, the Melting Pot has perfected their serving sizes to make sure you have enough room for all of their scrumptious options. We skipped the entree course, but you can also order meat and cook it in a seasoned broth at the table as well.
Although the Melting Pot is expensive, the location is prime, the service is excellent and the food is not only finger-licking-good, its fun to eat! This is the perfect place for a group outing.
I will give one warning - the Melting Pot must consider itself a romantic place, as they were playing one 8th grade slow dance jam after another. I said to my dining companions, "I feel like this music is urging someone to propose here tonight!"
To keep up with all the news and promotions from the Melting Pot, join their Club Fondue. Happy dipping!
