Four Course Fondue

I think the winter is the perfect time to get a group of people together, escape the cold weather and enjoy a different type of dining experience.

That is why every year during the holiday season, I find myself back at The Melting Pot in Albany, at the Crossgates Mall.

At the fondue restaurant, you can indulge in a variety of dishes including cheese fondue, special entrees and chocolate fondue for dessert. 

If you're going with a group of people, the "Big Night Out" menu is a good way to go; the menu provides a set price for a four course meal that includes cheese fondue, salad, entree, and chocolate fondue for dessert. 

For those of you who are thinking "why would I want to go out to dinner just to have to cook my own food?", my answer to you is, "because it's unexplainably delicious!"  The cheese stays hot, melted and fresh in the pot as you eat it, and when you're cooking the food in your entree, whether it be lobster, steak or chicken, you can dictate how and when you want to eat each piece.  Each entree comes paired with a variety of dipping sauces and sides.  The portions are extremely generous and although it may not look like there is a lot of food on your plate before you cook it, believe me, there is always enough.

The Melting Pot can be an expensive experience and may be worth saving for a special occasion (hence why I go once a year.) But you can also come in just to experience the cheese or chocolate fondue, rather than eating an entire meal.