Ever since I first dipped my first chunk of crusty bread into a warm ceramic pot filled with gooey Emmentaler and Gruyére cheeses, I’ve been a goner for this classic alpine dish, which originated in the mountains of Switzerland centuries ago. Today, fondue can encompass any melted cheese, desert, broth or oil dish that’s served in a communal pot and kept warm over a heat source. And, if you know where to look, you can find great fondue in Portland.
So whether you’re looking for a romantic fondue dinner or an interactive meal for the whole family, here are four of my favorite fondue restaurants that will keep you dipping all evening long.
Photo: Aimee Custis via Flickr Creative Commons
Best Special Occasion Fondue: The best-known (and original) fondue restaurant in town, The Melting Pot in downtown has an extensive menu filled with cheese, broth, oil and chocolate fondues. There’s also a variety of entrées and a kids menu, so you’ll find something to please every palate. Prices range from $92-$114/person for a four-course meal to $33 for a pot of a la carte fondue for two. Great bets: cheddar fondue, classic alpine fondue, and flaming turtle dessert fondue.
Best Swiss Fondue: Along with its authentic made-from-scratch Swiss and German cuisine, Alberta Arts District eatery Swiss Hibiscus serves up a fondue appetizer ($24) made with traditional Swiss cheeses, white wine and kirschwasser (a dry cherry schnapps). French bread is included for dipping.
Best Fondue for Families: At their four locations in the Portland metro area, Gustav’s Pub & Grill offers a handful of appetizers based on its Rheinlander cheese fondue ($10.25-$13.45). The ambience is casual and festive, perfect for families. Best picks: the crab fondue and the pretzel fondue.
Best Fondue for Two: For a casual date night, Northwest’s Urban Fondue is just the ticket. The dinner menu is filled with nearly a dozen savory cheese and broth fondues ($11.95 a la carte) as well as a variety of meats, seafood and vegetarian dishes for dipping. Be sure to save room for one (or two) of their 12 desert fondues. Great bets: brie and gorgonzola fondue, ruby port fondue and the chocolate Heath bar fondue.
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