Longtime St. Pete Restaurant Returns With New Downtown Location After 2020 Closure

ST. PETERSBURG, FL — The Melting Pot has returned to St. Petersburg after closing its original location on 4th Street N. in 2020 after more than 30 years.

The fondue restaurant brand, celebrating its 50th anniversary nationally, opened its new downtown St. Petersburg location at 699 Central Ave. on Monday.

The new 4,900-square-foot location offers a modern design with multiple dining areas and 191 seats across 42 tables and 76 cooktops, according to a news release. There’s also an indoor-outdoor bar and an exclusive eight-seat chef’s table.

“We’re thrilled to return to St. Petersburg, especially as we celebrate 50 years of fondue and the opportunity to create more unforgettable memories,” Bob Johnston, CEO of Melting Pot, said. “Melting Pot has been part of this community for over 30 years, and guest demand made it clear — we needed to come back. This new Central Avenue location brings a fresh, modern take on the fondue experience we’re known for, and we can’t wait to welcome both new and returning guests.”

In addition to its fondue menu options, the St. Petersburg restaurant will feature locally inspired fondue flavors that highlight the city’s vibrant culinary scene, the news release said.

To celebrate its grand opening and National Cheese Fondue Day on Friday, Melting Pot St. Petersburg is launching a “Tag to Win” Instagram contest. Through Thursday fans can enter to win one of eleven $50 gift cards by following @TheMeltingPot_StPete, liking the contest post, and tagging friends in the comments. Winners will be announced Friday at 11 a.m. on Instagram.

The celebration continues with a Cheese Eating Contest on Wednesday, 3:30 p.m., benefiting St. Petersburg Arts Alliance. Participants include Emmy award-winning actress Camila Banus and local TikToker Caiti Mackenzie.

An official ribbon-cutting ceremony with the St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce will immediately follow at 4 p.m.