If you’re craving comfort, Indianapolis has a different kind of “pot” that locals rave about long after dinner ends. At the Melting Pot on E 86th Street, the warm glow of the fondue pots, the slow-cooked flavors, and the celebratory vibe create a meal that lingers in memory. With a 4.7-star rating and thousands of reviews, this fondue favorite turns simple ingredients into an immersive experience. From silky cheeses to molten chocolate, here’s why this cozy spot keeps guests coming back for anniversaries, date nights, and just-because indulgence.
Location, Hours, and First Impressions
Set at 5650 E 86th St, Suite A, the Melting Pot welcomes guests into a candlelit nook of Indianapolis hospitality. The fondue restaurant opens at 4 PM most weekdays, with extended weekend hours and a comfortable $50–100 price range for a multi-course experience. Inside, clean lines and private booths pair with a friendly team known for attentive service. The vibe feels celebratory even on ordinary nights. With easy access off I-465 and a reputation for special occasions, it’s a destination where time slows down, conversation deepens, and dinner becomes an event rather than a checklist.
Cheese Course: The Table-Starting Ritual
The meal typically begins with a show: a server crafting molten cheese tableside. Expect aromatic blends—think sharp cheddar or alpine—enlivened by garlic, wine, and seasonings. Cubed breads, apples, and crisp veggies invite dipping, while staff offer pairing tips and technique. Guests praise the variety of sauces and the flair of servers who guide first-timers. It’s interactive, cozy, and surprisingly filling, setting a relaxed cadence for the evening ahead. Many reviewers cite the 50th anniversary selections as standouts, urging that favorites become permanent. It’s an edible icebreaker where laughter and cheese pull-lengths compete for attention.
Salads and Sips: Bright Interludes
Between courses, fresh salads and cocktails reset the palate. The strawberry salad wins frequent praise, tossing sweet-tart berries with greens and a tangy dressing. Sparkly lemon-drop cocktails and curated wines amplify the convivial mood. Servers often offer recommendations—even playful sauce combinations—to match tastes and occasions. Whether celebrating an anniversary or a casual catch-up, these interludes keep the experience balanced and paced. The bar can get busy, but attentive staff typically smooth things out. It’s a thoughtful pause that anticipates the richer, heartier courses to come while keeping the conversation flowing and the energy upbeat.
Entrée Adventure: Broths, Proteins, and Technique
For the entrée, simmering pots of seasoned broth transform the table into a mini kitchen. Guests cook bite-size chicken, beef, shrimp, and veggies, steering doneness to preference. The allure lies in control—and in the sauces: an array that sparks creativity and conversation. Staff coach newcomers on timing and tips for best texture. Even skeptics, wary of “small pieces,” often leave satisfied, noting how the pacing builds fullness. It’s dinner as collaboration, a hands-on rhythm that invites sharing. From classic Court Bouillon to robust flavors, the pot anchors a comforting, interactive main course with satisfying depth.
Service That Sets the Tone
Reviews consistently spotlight the team: attentive, friendly, and celebratory. Names like Kendra, Anthony, Tommy, Thomas R., Caleb, and Karen D appear in glowing notes, praised for pacing, recommendations, and thoughtful gestures. When hiccups arise—like a slight delay—coworkers step in seamlessly. Managers proactively relocate guests for comfort, underscoring hospitality’s priority. This collective care elevates the evening from good to memorable, turning first-time visits into traditions. Whether orchestrating anniversary surprises or guiding a honeymoon splurge, staff read the room, match the mood, and keep the conversation about guests—not logistics. It’s service with heart, and it shows.
Dessert Fondue: The Finale Everyone Remembers
Chocolate fondue ends the night on a high note, from classic dark to playful s’mores. Dippers include strawberries, brownies, marshmallows, and seasonal bites, inviting mix-and-match decadence. Guests rave about how the finale brings back the “wow”—and kids, especially, brighten at the s’mores flame. Servers offer dipper combos and pacing suggestions for a perfect finish. It’s rich, theatrical, and shareable, with just enough spectacle to feel special. Even after several courses, the table somehow finds room. Reviews call it a must, the sweet memory that lingers on the drive home and inspires the next reservation.
Occasions, Packages, and Price Reality
With a $50–100 spend typical, the Melting Pot shines for occasions: anniversaries, birthdays, date nights, and mother-daughter lunches. Special menus, like the 50th anniversary lineup or night-out packages, streamline choices and add festive touches. Some guests note the price, but many counter with value in pacing, quality, and service. It’s a splurge that feels intentional, turning meals into memories. Reservation planning is wise, especially on weekends. Consider timing with hours—opening at 4 PM most days, and noon on weekends—to match your pace. For a long, conversational evening, the investment pays dividends in connection.
How to Plan Your Visit
Book ahead via the website, especially for prime evenings. Aim for earlier seatings if you prefer a quieter pace; late slots buzz with celebration energy. Check hours—weekday dinners run 4–9 PM, with extended weekend availability. Parking is straightforward, and the location near 39.91296, -86.07230 is easy to reach. Scan reviews for server shout-outs if you’d like a specific pro guiding your night. Budget for a multi-course experience and allow two hours to relax. Finally, save room for dessert: the chocolate finale is the table’s favorite tradition, and the perfect reason to return.