Restaurant stirs up dining redesign as it marks 45 years in Tallahassee
Tallahassee diners have been twirling bread in gourmet cheeses and dipping strawberries in melted chocolate on special occasions for nearly 45 years.
Melting Pot, one of the nation’s premier fondue restaurants, has just completed a revamp with all-new décor and atmosphere at its Tallahassee restaurant – at 2727 N. Monroe St. – which has been given a more modern look and feel, according to a press release.
Celebrating nearly 45 years in the Tallahassee community – and one of the city’s historic restaurants - the transformation is part of Melting Pot Evolution, a company-wide initiative upgrading dining rooms, bars, and other areas.
“The remodeling effort is called Melting Pot Evolution because it’s reflective of how our system is growing and changing to serve our guests better,” said Scott Evans, Director of Construction and Design for Front Burner Brands, the parent company of Melting Pot. “We are still the place for special celebrations and romantic evenings, but we also want to welcome guests for everyday good times too.”
Tallahassee’s redesign features a more open, inviting floor plan with an open dining room and designated, but easily visible bar area where bartenders can craft high-level cocktails.
The restaurant has all-new finishes, including fabrics, paint, artwork, and lighting. In addition, the hospitality stand has been upgraded, and there’s new exterior signage. The party room was also improved with new trellis décor and lighting to make it more inviting for different group sizes.
For couples seeking a romantic night out such as "Thursdate," the restaurant updated its Lover’s Lane section. The booths were made even more private by extending walls, enclosing areas, and adding a candle wall feature.
Melting Pot has been Tallahassee’s go-to spot for practicing the art of fondue since 1979 when they first opened at the basement of Barnacle Bill's before moving to Monroe Street in 2007. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, graduation or other special occasion, guests have been coming together over flavorful fondue including gourmet cheeses and decadent chocolate desserts.
“We’re thrilled to bring Melting Pot Evolution’s new style to our home,” said Sean Roberts, a Tallahassee native who co-owns the restaurant with Ryan and Rob Johnston. “For many guests, Melting Pot is an event, and the remodel makes the experience even more enjoyable without losing the warm hospitality we’re known for.”
Roberts manages the operation of the restaurant, which has a deep and personal connection to Melting Pot history. Ryan and Rob Johnston are the sons and nephews, respectively, of Melting Pot Franchise Company founders Mike, Mark, and Bob Johnston. The Tallahassee location was the company’s second to open, following the original in Maitland, Florida.
Melting Pot Tallahassee is open Monday-Thursday 5-9:30 p.m., Friday 5-10 p.m., Saturday 4-10:30 p.m. and Sunday 4-9:30 p.m. For more information, visit meltingpot.com or call 850-386-7440.
This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Tallahassee's Melting Pot restaurant celebrates 45 years with redesign
