The Melting Pot

Locals have been romancing and celebrating special occasions at this Raleigh location of a Florida-based fondue restaurant chain for well over a decade. They come for the darkly romantic atmosphere, as well as for the communal experience of fondue, available in just about every combination you can imagine. Most folks start with a cheese fondue (including cheddar, the Mexican-inspired Fiesta and the classic Swiss). Entree fondue options include combinations of beef tenderloin, lobster tail, chicken, shrimp and a half dozen other meats, either boiled in court bouillon or battered and fried in canola oil. Whatever entree they choose, very few miss the chocolate fondue for dessert. You shouldn't, either. (Full review)