Established
1975
Franchise Units
90
Minimum Investment
$1,300,000
Franchise Fee
$45,000
Total Investment Range
$2,400,000
Home Based
No
Description
The Melting Pot is one of America’s most recognizable and enduring fine-casual dining concepts, built around the timeless appeal of interactive fondue dining. Known for its intimate ambiance, multi-course dining format, and celebratory experiences, the brand has carved out a powerful niche in the upscale dining segment. Rather than competing in the fast-casual or quick-service space, The Melting Pot positions itself as a destination restaurant—ideal for date nights, anniversaries, business dinners, and special occasions.
What truly sets The Melting Pot apart is its experience-first model. Guests don’t just eat; they engage. From preparing cheese fondue at the table to sharing premium proteins and finishing with indulgent chocolate fondue, the concept encourages connection, conversation, and longer dining times. This experiential approach drives higher per-guest spend, strong repeat visits, and consistent demand across generations.
Why Invest in This Franchise?
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Iconic, Experience-Driven Brand – A well-established name in upscale casual dining with a loyal customer base
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High Average Check Size – Multi-course fondue dining supports strong per-table revenue
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Occasion-Based Demand – Celebrations, holidays, and corporate dining drive year-round traffic
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Limited Direct Competition – Few national brands operate in the interactive fondue category
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Proven Longevity – A concept that has remained relevant across changing dining trends
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Scalable Multi-Unit Potential – Ideal for experienced restaurant operators and investment groups
Background
Established Year: 1975
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Founders: Bob Johnston and Mike Johnston
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Industry Category: Upscale Casual / Experiential Dining / Fondue Restaurants
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Franchise Active Units (USA): 90+ locations
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Ownership: Operated under a dedicated franchising entity with strong brand governance
The Melting Pot was founded in Maitland, Florida, with a simple yet powerful idea: bring people together around a shared dining experience. At a time when fondue was considered a novelty, the founders envisioned a full-service restaurant built entirely around the concept. Over time, the brand refined its menu, elevated its interiors, and standardized operations—transforming fondue into a sophisticated, repeatable restaurant model.
The franchise expanded steadily across the United States, establishing a strong presence in major metropolitan areas, college towns, and affluent suburbs. Today, The Melting Pot is widely regarded as the leading fondue restaurant brand in North America, with decades of operational learning, menu innovation, and guest-experience refinement behind it.
Support Training
The Melting Pot offers a comprehensive franchise support system designed to guide owners from site selection to long-term operations:
Pre-Launch & Development Support
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Site selection guidance and market analysis
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Restaurant design standards and layout planning
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Vendor sourcing and equipment specifications
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Pre-opening project management assistance
Training Programs
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In-depth initial training covering operations, food preparation, service standards, and management
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Hands-on kitchen and front-of-house training
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Leadership and restaurant financial management education
Operational Support
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Proven operating systems and procedures
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Ongoing field support and performance reviews
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Menu updates, seasonal offerings, and innovation rollouts
Marketing & Brand Support
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National branding and creative assets
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Local store marketing strategies and campaigns
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Digital marketing guidance and promotions calendar
Ongoing Assistance
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Continuous training refreshers
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Access to franchisee network and best practices
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Data-driven insights to improve efficiency and profitability
Ideal Candidate
The Melting Pot is best suited for franchisees who understand premium hospitality and long-term brand building.
Ideal candidates typically include:
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Experienced restaurant operators or multi-unit investors
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Hospitality-focused entrepreneurs with strong people-management skills
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Investors passionate about guest experience and service excellence
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Groups capable of managing higher-end build-outs and staffing
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Franchisees targeting upscale urban, suburban, or lifestyle destinations
Hands-on involvement is encouraged, especially during the early stages, to ensure service quality and brand standards are consistently met.
Financial Detail
| Financial Component | Estimated Range / Details |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | USD 45,000 |
| Total Investment Required | USD 1,300,000 – USD 2,400,000 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital | Approx. USD 500,000+ |
| Net Worth Requirement | Approx. USD 1,500,000+ |
| Restaurant Size | 4,000 – 6,500 sq. ft. |
| Build-Out & Interior Costs | USD 700,000 – USD 1,200,000 |
| Kitchen Equipment & Fixtures | USD 250,000 – USD 400,000 |
| Furniture, Décor & Signage | USD 150,000 – USD 300,000 |
| Technology & POS Systems | USD 30,000 – USD 60,000 |
| Pre-Opening Training & Travel | USD 20,000 – USD 40,000 |
| Initial Marketing & Grand Opening | USD 25,000 – USD 50,000 |
| Opening Inventory & Supplies | USD 30,000 – USD 60,000 |
| Working Capital (3–6 months) | USD 100,000 – USD 250,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 5% – 6% of Gross Sales |
| Brand / Marketing Fund Fee | Approx. 2% of Gross Sales |
| Estimated Break-Even Period | 3 – 5 Years |
| Primary Revenue Streams | Dine-In Fondue Experiences, Special Occasions, Group Dining, Gift Cards |
