THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED The Melting Pot

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED The Melting Pot Restaurant Review:

An escalator ride above the busy Old Pasadena street scene lies this edition of a national fondue chain. A meandering space with lots of rich wood, a showy glass-encased wine cellar and high-backed booths holds granite tables with built-in burners, gently illuminated by Murano-style pendant lamps. It is potentially romantic, but also good for families or groups of friends. The menu can be confusing, but basically you begin with a choice of cheese fondues (e.g. traditional Gruyère and Emmental with a splash of Kirsch, or “Wisconsin Trio” with some blue cheese and white wine) followed by an uninspired salad and then the main course. You select your broth --- we prefer the coq au vin with red wine, herbs and garlic --- and a selection of items to dip, ranging from teriyaki-marinated sirloin to lobster tails to vegetables. A variety of dipping sauces and condiments enhance the affair. And, of course, dessert consists of a variety of chocolate fondues. The raw materials are not overly impressive, but the place is fun and can be very addictive --- hence the overflow crowds.