Northwest Arkansas is known for its food culture, but every so often, something arrives that completely reinvents the idea of dining out. This November, The Melting Pot opened its first location in the region, bringing with it a beloved national brand, a legacy of celebration, and a family of dedicated owners who believe deeply in connection, hospitality, and the joy of sharing a meal together.

For the ownership team of Have Taste Equities, LLC, The Melting Pot is far more than a restaurant. It is a place where birthdays are toasted, anniversaries are cherished, mother’s days are remembered, and ordinary evenings become unforgettable. For more than 20 years, this restaurant has been a meaningful part of their own family story, and now they are bringing that tradition to Northwest Arkansas.

“We have celebrated so many milestones at The Melting Pot,” the family shared. “It has always provided the perfect night out, from handcrafted cocktails to beautiful fresh flowers and an atmosphere that invites you to slow down and savor time together. We knew Rogers and the NWA community would love this experience as much as we do.”

The leadership team behind the new Rogers location is truly a family affair. Owners and partners include mother and daughter, Diana Bonnett and Candice Hickerson, along with Candice’s husband, Chad. Together, they form Have Taste Equities, the franchise group responsible for bringing the first Melting Pot location to Northwest Arkansas.

Each member of the team brings decades of business experience. Diana and Candice have been partners for nearly 20 years, operating successful businesses for more than five decades combined. Chad has spent most of his career leading major healthcare and hospital organizations as a chief executive. Their backgrounds span leadership, operations, service, and people-focused management, creating a strong foundation for this new venture.

In the last 18 months, the family made a major life transition, moving from California to Northwest Arkansas along with 14 extended family members. Today, Candice and Chad are raising their four children here, and Diana is happily close to her eight grandchildren.

“Family, opportunity, togetherness, building the future, and creating memories. Those are the pillars behind this restaurant for us,” Candice explains. “We want The Melting Pot to be a celebration destination for Northwest Arkansas.”

Part restaurant and part experience, The Melting Pot is known for its interactive fondue dining that brings people together in a way traditional restaurants simply cannot. Guests choose their own courses, dipping sauces, and cooking styles, creating a personalized meal that unfolds slowly, giving time for real conversation and connection.

The menu includes seasonal offerings, classic favorites, and premium ingredients, all paired with curated wines and craft cocktails. Whether guests are celebrating a milestone, enjoying date night, or having a fun evening out with friends, the experience is both memorable and meaningful.

The owners refer to it as a place where moments turn into memories. Each detail, from the first piece of bread dipped into warm cheese to the last bite of chocolate fondue, is designed to create an evening guests will remember.

The Melting Pot is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, marking five decades of fondue dining and perfect nights out. This milestone makes the Rogers opening especially meaningful, representing both the legacy of the brand and the start of a new chapter in Northwest Arkansas.

This is the first Melting Pot location in the region and the only national fondue dining experience of its kind. The owners believe the timing could not be better. Northwest Arkansas is thriving, growing, and rapidly becoming one of the most dynamic food markets in the country.

“The NWA restaurant market is starving for a concept like this,” the ownership team shared. “This region is evolving into a truly unique place to live, work, and dine. We believe The Melting Pot will quickly become a household name here.”

Beyond dining, the team is passionate about giving back. They intend to work closely with local nonprofits and community partners to support causes throughout the region. Their goal is to create more than a restaurant. They want to build a place that celebrates community and contributes to it.

With its warm ambiance, hands-on experience, and focus on connection, The Melting Pot is ready to welcome the community for the perfect night out. Just right across the street up next to LOMA! Only a golf cart ride away. 

5102 W Pauline Whitaker Pkwy Suite 310, Rogers, AR 72758

 meltingpot.com/rogers-ar

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