Almost 10 years after closing, a national chain restaurant is eyeing a return to the Lexington dining market.
As part of a recent expansion, fondue-themed The Melting Pot says it has identified Lexington as one of its top markets.
The restaurant, which is celebrating its 50th year in 2025, closed its Lexington location at 152 West Tiverton Way in July 2015 after seven years for financial reasons.
But now with strong demand, the success of the Louisville restaurant — the only other location in Kentucky — and advanced market analysis, the company says they can make a comeback in Lexington. Melting Pot Franchise Growth Strategist Collin Benyo says the goal is to have a franchise agreement signed this year with someone in Lexington.
“We have a lot of data points that make it essentially a reality in our mind that we need to be there,” Benyo said. “We know with the right person, we can make Lexington a success, and that’s why it’s in the top 10 for me to pursue in finding new franchisees to build the brand, and Lexington is a perfect place to do it.”
Benyo says they have already identified parts of town where they feel they could be successful.
“The market is great. I just have to find the right person,” Benyo said.
Melting Pot Is Expanding, Opening New Locations
Identifying Lexington as a top franchise location is part of a recent expansion targeting steady growth in several states. Benyo said there are six Melting Pot locations in development, and recent reopenings include St. Petersburg, Fla., New Haven, Conn. and Syracuse, N.Y..
There are 92 Melting Pot restaurants in 30 states and one Canadian location.
The premium but casual dining franchise is known for its fondue, where diners can cook their own meal at the table. In addition to traditional cheese or chocolate fondue, the menu includes chicken, steak, shrimp and more that can be prepared tableside.
“The people that we’ve dealt with the last four or five groups that we’ve signed for franchises have no hospitality background whatsoever because of the simplicity of what we do,” Benyo said, noting there is no other fondue franchise in the U.S., making it stand out from other franchise options like chicken and pizza.
