Melting Pot Sets Opening Day Record with New Venue

Tampa-based Melting Pot Restaurants Inc., the country's largest fondue chain, is reopening The Melting Pot on the First Coast after closing their previous location in Orange Park about a decade ago. Dan Addison, former director of franchise sales for six years, and Mike Robie, a three-year vet as franchise area director, are bringing the brand back with their new contemporary facility. Best known for its four-course fondue dinners, fine wines, friendly service, and private tables, the chain opened its first and only Jacksonville location on April 4, an event that allowed it to raise a chainwide opening-day record of $3,400 in pre-opening festivities, which was donated to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, a Memphis-based pediatric facility. Suitable for hosting romantic dates, friendly get-togethers, or corporate meetings for large groups, the new facility is 5,500 square feet with an additional patio area and seats 220—174 inside, with an additional 46 at the bar and patio.