Chris Zalesiak - Burger 21 & Melting Pot - Albuquerque,NM

THE MELTING POT

The Melting Pot is a premier fondue restaurant featuring an interactive dining experience. Founded in 1975 in Maitland Florida, The Melting Pot in Albuquerque was established in 2002 by local owner Christine Zalesiak. The melting pot is renowned for offering a unique variety of cheese fondue, entrees, cooking styles and chocolate fondue plus a full bar and extensive wine list. Loyal fondue fans range in age from children to grandparents. Their mission is to provide the Perfect Night Out for our guests and the Melting Pot is known in Albuquerque as “The Place to Celebrate”. Whether its your birthday, date night out, holiday or graduation , they promise you will create memories over their fondue pots. The Melting Pot is an annual recipient of award including: ABQ Mags Best of the City in Romantic restaurant, Best place to overindulge, Best dessert.

BURGER 21

After 16 years of honing her craft at The Melting Pot, Chris opened a totally different concept called “Burger 21” in October of 2018 at the Corner Shops at Winrock Town Center . She saw the need in the booming ABQ Uptown area for a gourmet burger restaurant that focused on fresh ingredients and made-to-order offerings.

Burger 21 is a restaurant concept that is changing consumers’ expectations of the “better burger” category. The burgers are chef-inspired creations made to order with premium ingredients and innovative recipes. They also feature fresh salads, crispy fries and chicken tenders and to-die-for handspun shakes. Plus, Burger 21 offers extensive Gluten-Free, Vegan and Vegetarian options. Their goal is to give the guest a gourmet experience in a modern atmosphere without the gourmet price.

The Burger 21 vibe is best described by our creative “B-isms” – which range from “B-saucy” and “B-different” to “B-shaken” and “B-involved” – our B-isms are prominently outlined on the back of the menu, as well as displayed on the walls of the restaurant. Burger 21’s “B-isms” boldly state the brand’s values and what customers can expect from the food and service in its restaurants. And why “21” ? They started with 21 burgers, of course !