The Melting Pot Will Return to Memphis in 2027
The fondue restaurant chain will open a new location in East Memphis at the former site of Pyro's Fire Fresh Pizza.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Dining Out
Live Poll
Do you feel that new chain restaurant openings improve the dining scene in your area?
Three franchisees are bringing The Melting Pot back to Memphis, with an opening expected in 2027. The new restaurant will be located at 1199 Ridgeway Road in East Memphis.
Why it matters
The investment marks the return of the fondue chain to the city after it previously operated in the area for a decade. The franchisees are entering the local market as they expand their footprint in the hospitality business.
The new restaurant will occupy the 1199 Ridgeway Road space. The national chain has a 20-year history of partnership with St. Jude, raising a total of $20 million.
The players
The Melting Pot
Headquartered in Tampa, Florida, this fondue restaurant chain has operated for 50 years.
St. Jude
Based in Memphis, this world-renowned research hospital specializes in the treatment of pediatric diseases.
The details
Guests at the restaurant prepare their own food using grill pans, oil, or broth. The menu offerings range from cheese fondue and salads to entrées and chocolate desserts like the Burning Love, which features bananas, peanut butter, and chocolate.
Timeline
The restaurant chain originally opened its first Memphis location in 2004.
The former Memphis restaurant closed its doors in 2014.
The company marked the milestone of its 50th anniversary in 2025.
The new East Memphis location is expected to open in 2027.
Roadmap
The return of this brand mirrors a strategic effort to re-establish presence in mid-sized urban markets. This move positions the chain to reclaim local market share previously held by its former location.
Residents can look forward to a new venue in East Memphis for interactive dining once the site opens in 2027. The project will transform the vacant property previously occupied by Pyro's Fire Fresh Pizza into a new hospitality destination.
The takeaway
The return of a familiar brand provides local diners with a new option for interactive, fondue-style meals. Residents should monitor local project updates as the 2027 opening date approaches to confirm specific seasonal menu availability.
Further reading
Learn more about the local culinary scene on the Dining Out page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Commercial Appeal.
Live Poll
Do you feel that new chain restaurant openings improve the dining scene in your area?
