The Melting Pot

Exploding from Florida in the 1980s and now with locations in 36 states and three countries, this fondue restaurant chain's popularity is firmly rooted in giving diners control over the food. It's fun to mix and match then dip assorted meats and treats through four courses of gooey goodness. That four-course bonanza is called Big Night Out and surveys all that the restaurant has to offer, beginning with cheese fondue. That is followed by a salad, an entrée and completed with chocolate fondue. The Big Night Out selection rotates every six months and has included a menu of French-inspired dishes. Other packages include Ladies Night Out and Romantic Night Out. Unfortunately, for a form of dining with peasant origins in Switzerland, an experience at a fondue eatery like The Melting Pot comes with pretty steep price tag.