Our family is scattered in the four counties, so several times a year we meet, eat and catch-up. Recently we met at the Melting Pot in Pasadena. Most restaurants want to turn over the table after an hour or so and we always feel pressured to cut our visit short or be rude and keep the table.
Not at the Melting Pot. It takes about 2-1/2 hours to eat. Which is perfect for our family, we like to talk and have fun. The designers were really smart, not only is the decor elegant, the noise level is low. We could actually hear each other without shouting. Our large round high back booth felt very private. We dipped, cooked, munched and talked to an endless procession of great food.
Our server was friendly, attentive without being intrusive and knowledgeable which is important given the wide variety of food and flavor choices.
We ordered the Big Night Out. WOW. This is definitely not your parents fondue. No Avocado green or orange fondue pots, stinky sterno or rancid oil here.
Our four course meal had an absolutely wonderful variety of food, starting with Spinach and Artichoke Cheese fondue followed by a choice of fresh salad. The main course was a tray filled with lobster tail, filet, Ahi, steak, chicken, endless vegetables, pot stickers, ravioli and homemade dipping sauces. Just when our tummies were feeling pretty good, bango out comes this amazing Rocky Road Chocolate fondue, with big fresh strawberries, an assortment of bite size pieces of cake and our chocoholic taste buds were in seventh heaven.
We had a fabulous experience. I hardily recommend The Melting Pot Pasadena when you want to mix good company with great food.
Pros: Quiet romantic decor, friendly helpful staff, easy parking
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