Just the name alone may bring back vivid memories of apple slices, chunks of soft bread, and whiffs of melted sharp cheddar and buttery Emmental cheeses.
If this sounds like you, then the news you're about to read may hit home: Melting Pot will close its doors permanently on Saturday, November 30, at its Miami location in Kendall after 39 years in business. Although the national restaurant chain has plans to open a new location in Coral Gables in 2025, the franchise owners will close its original, longest-standing location along Sunset Drive.
On Friday, November 15, the restaurant took to Instagram to share the news with its followers.
The caption reads, "Dear valued guests, after 39 incredible years of serving you fondue and creating cherished memories, the time has come for us to close our doors. We want to invite you to join us the last week before our final night of service on November 30. We will keep you posted on any specials we have before the end of the month."
Heartbroken fans immediately flooded the comment section, with comments ranging from "Breaks my heart a lot of good memories" to "Very sad. My family and I love the melting pot."
The caption continues, "Let's celebrate the joy of fondue together one last time! We would be honored to share this special evening with you, reminiscing about the moments we've experienced together and the delicious meals we've enjoyed. Thank you for your unwavering support over the years. We look forward to seeing you on our last night to say goodbye and share one last fondue experience."
Nearly 40 Years Along Sunset Drive in Kendall
Melting Pot Miami opened in Kendall in 1985 at 11520 Sunset Dr., but its history dates back a decade before that.The original Melting Pot restaurant opened in 1975 in Maitland, Florida, a suburban city in Orange County (part of the Greater Orlando area). In 1984, the Johnston brothers purchased all rights to the Melting Pot brand and expanded the business into a franchise. Just a year later, the Kendall location opened its doors and has been a staple for family gatherings and date nights ever since.
Known for offering a choice of fondue cooking styles and a variety of unique entrées, Melting Pot's menu also features cheese fondues, salads, fine wines, and chocolate fondue desserts.
As of February 2024, the chain currently has about 93 locations in the United States, 15 of which are in Florida.
The chain currently has plans to open in Coral Gables at 320 Miracle Mile in early 2025. The restaurant will be located across the street from Seasons 52 and Doc B's.
Melting Pot Miami. 11520 Sunset Dr., Miami; 305-279-8816; meltingpot.com/miami-fl. Closing Saturday, November 30.
