Red Bank's Melting Pot Restaurant Closes

RED BANK, NJ — Fondue lovers who have patronized The Melting Pot in Red Bank for the last dozen years received the unwelcome news Monday that the popular eatery is closing its doors.

"Valued fans, we regret to announce you that The Melting Pot of Red Bank has closed for business indefinitely as of Monday, October 24. We appreciate the opportunity to have served the Red Bank community for nearly 12 years at this location. Thank you for your patronage," the company said in a post on the Red Bank location's Facebook page.

The closure affects about 20 people employed at the Red Bank location, the company said in a news release. Known for offering a choice of fondue cooking styles and a variety of unique entrées, The Melting Pot’s menu also features cheese fondues, salads, fine wines and chocolate fondue desserts.

"We’re more than just a restaurant; we’re a unique destination offering a dining experience unlike any other," the company says on its website.

Lauren Mulhern, a spokeswoman for The Melting Pot Restaurants, which is part of Front Burner Brands, said the closure was due to compliance reasons related to a franchise agreement.

"We have a duty to protect the brand and we take compliance matters seriously," Mulhern said. She did not detail the compliance issues, citing contractual confidentiality.

Mulhern said there are no confirmed plans to reopen at the current Red Bank location, which was in The Galleria, a converted factory from the 1900s that sits in the heart of the arts and antiques district not far from the Navesink River.

However, the company hopes to open a new location in Red Bank or the surrounding area in the future, she said.

"Red Bank does very well," Mulhern said. "We have a strong footing in that community."

Fondue fanatics are urged to fulfill their fondue dreams at the The Melting Pot location in Somerville or at the The Melting Pot in Whippany.

The Melting Pot, which has more than 125 locations in 35 states as well as Canada, Mexico, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, is currently accepting franchise applications for the Red Bank area. Interested parties should contact Dan Stone, chief business and people development officer, at 813-425-6208 or dstone@frontburnerbrands.com.

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