DIP INTO SEDUCTION ... AND CHEESE AND CHOCOLATE >>> 

The Melting Pot in Tacoma was the Nosh Leagues' next outing. The drive wasn't as terrible as I imagined on a Thursday night at 5:30. The parking, however, was not pristine, circling around Tacoma streets trying desperately to find a spot NOT next to a stop sign or fire hydrant.

Of course, the parking lot designated for The Melting Pot was completely full, so I settled for the next best thing, a not-so-creepy alley. Soon I found myself venturing into a dimly lit restaurant.

The air of the old building was much more private and secluded than the last Nosh League gathering at Affairs Cafe, but the room quickly filled with guests apprehensively waiting (and by guests I, of course, mean myself) to dip into the delicious cheese trio fondue, the first course.

As the only Nosh Leaguer under 21, I was denied the wine. Instead, I ordered blackberry lemonade, which with much delight, was served with real blackberries crushed into the beverage.

This was my first time eating at The Melting Pot. Upon entering, I was prepared for the dipping pot of cheese fondue, due to hearsay from friends. The arrangement was an interesting dynamic; everyone at the four-person tables dipped into the same pot. I was sitting with many strangers. The waitress said teasingly that it was nice to be close to your guests when dining here; fortunately I have no boundaries when it comes to strangers!

Soon various raw veggies, apples and bread appeared on the table in front of me, along with a napkin filled with an assortment of jabbing devices.

Drowning the first piece of bread into the pot of cheese I almost drooled. I love cheese on almost everything. There is no judgment here for this cheese lover as I proceeded to mop up the excess cheese on the plate.

There were only two courses being served, so I wanted to get my fill of each. As I moved to the other types of food, visions of the raw veggies flying through the air filled my mind as I tried desperately to skew a carrot.

Looking around, I noted the 41 people crammed into a room meant for 40, the largest Nosh League gathering in its 14-month life.

During the intermission between courses, the prizes were handed out. This round: DVDs and tickets to Warren Miller's latest flick, a handful of Stink Cheese and Meat gift cards, and an XL Cat Daddy T-shirt were raffled (I'm told this is seriously awesome moonshine! Unfortunately, I can't verify this claim). But of course Irony got Her way and the only underage female got the extra large whisky T-shirt. The one time I win something! (It was a nice gift for my father.)

Before we were served the second course, chocolate fondue (my favorite!), we were given a little history lesson about the origin of fondue and the Melting Pot.

Apparently Switzerland invented fondue in the 18th century, and the first Melting Pot popped up in 1975. Soon after, the franchise began to grow in 1979. Now there are more than 100 locations, including International locations.

Tentatively listening, I realized I pay closer attention during a history lesson when it is discussing food I'm about to consume ... especially when the next dish is chocolate fondue with yummy treats to dip within.

I sensed no fear when poking into the cakes, brownies, and rice crispy treats. Just sheer bliss.

By the end of the night, my stomach was completely filled with cheesy, chocolaty goodness. It is a restaurant with much pleasure and no regrets. My, oh my do I love Nosh League food.

Next month's Nosh League event hasn't been confirmed. Keep an eye out on its Facebook page.

LINK: More photos from The Melting Pot gathering