Renting Fondue Pots: Is It Possible And Worth It?

Fondue is a fun and social way to enjoy a meal with friends and family. If you're hosting a party and want to offer your guests a unique dining experience, renting a fondue pot is an option to consider. Several companies offer fondue pot rentals, including antique and electric options, and they typically come with all the necessary utensils and fuel pods for cooking meat, cheese, and chocolate. Prices vary by location and duration, but it's a great way to create a memorable dining experience without the cost of purchasing your own equipment.

Where to rent fondue pots

Fondue pots are available for rent from several companies. Here are some options:

CaterRent

CaterRent offers a fondue set for meat, cheese, and chocolate. The set includes three cooking pots and 18 color-coded forks, accommodating up to six people. Additional bowls for chocolate fondue and fuel pods can be rented separately. The fondue set costs $18 to rent.

Party Rental Ltd.

Party Rental Ltd. offers an antique copper fondue pot. The price is based on the date and delivery location.

CT Rental Center

CT Rental Center provides an eleven-piece, three-in-one copper-plated stainless steel fondue set. The set includes a copper spatter guard and rechaud, a white ceramic insert, and a double boiler. It can be used for meat, cheese, and chocolate fondue. The rental center serves central Connecticut and can be contacted by phone or by visiting their location in Middletown, CT.

Orrman's Cheese Shop

Orrman's Cheese Shop rents out antique fondue pots with forks for six people. You can also rent a fondue kit with all the necessary fixings. The rental period is 24 hours, and you can reserve multiple consecutive dates. The shop offers both electric and sterno options.

Cost of renting fondue pots

Fondue pots can be rented from several online platforms and shops. The cost of renting a fondue pot varies depending on the platform, the type of fondue pot, and the rental duration. Here is a breakdown of the cost of renting fondue pots from different sources:

Fat Llama:

Fat Llama is a peer-to-peer rental platform that offers fondue pot rentals. The cost of renting a fondue pot from Fat Llama is C$20.00 per day or C$140.00 per week. This price may vary depending on the specific fondue pot and the owner's pricing.

CaterRent:

CaterRent offers a fondue set that includes three cooking pots and 18 color-coded forks for up to six people. The cost of renting this fondue set is $18.00. They also offer additional items such as chocolate bowls and fuel pods for purchase.

CT Rental Center:

CT Rental Center provides an eleven-piece, three-in-one copper-plated stainless steel fondue set. The set includes a copper spatter guard and rechaud, a white ceramic insert, and various other items. They do not explicitly state the rental cost, but they do mention that they have been serving central Connecticut since 1969, suggesting that their services may be limited to that area.

Orrman's Cheese Shop:

Orrman's Cheese Shop offers antique fondue pots with forks for six people. They also provide the option to add a fondue kit to complete the setup. The rental duration is 24 hours, and the cost is not mentioned.

It is important to note that the prices mentioned above may not be up-to-date, and it is always recommended to check the respective websites or stores for the most accurate and current pricing information. Additionally, some platforms may require a deposit or security measure, such as a credit card, to ensure the safe return of the rented items.

What to cook in a rented fondue pot

Fondue is a fun and interactive way to eat with friends and family, and you can rent a fondue pot to elevate your next dinner party. If you're wondering what to cook in a rented fondue pot, here are some mouth-watering ideas to get you started:

Cheesy Goodness

The traditional Swiss way to use a fondue pot is to melt cheese. Gruyere and Emmentaler are popular choices, but any Swiss cheese will do. Add some white wine and kirsch, and you've got a delicious pot of fondue. Dip in pieces of bread, or go for veggies like broccoli, which pair perfectly with cheese.

Chocolate Indulgence

For dessert, you can't go wrong with a chocolate fondue. Melt some chocolate in the pot and dip in marshmallows, Rice Krispie treats, fruit slices, or even brownies. For an extra indulgent touch, add some peanut butter to the mix.

Meat and Poultry

A fondue pot is a great way to cook meat and proteins like chicken or beef. Use oil or a flavourful broth in the pot, and cook your meat to your desired doneness. This is a fun way to let everyone cook their meat exactly how they like it.

Caramel Treats

For another sweet option, try making a Caramel Cognac fondue. This decadent dip is perfect for fruit, including strawberries, tangerine segments, or bananas.

Tempura

For something a little different, try making tempura in your fondue pot. Dip shrimp or veggies in tempura batter, then fry them in oil for a unique twist on traditional fondue.

Shabu-Shabu or Hot Pot

Your fondue pot is also perfect for Asian-style hot pot cooking, such as Shabu-Shabu or Mongolian Hot Pot. Boil water or broth in the pot and add thin slices of beef, tofu, mushrooms, and vegetables. It's a fun and interactive way to enjoy a meal with friends.

Fondue pot rental duration

The Party Pros in Portland, OR, also offer fondue pot rentals, but their website does not specify the rental duration. Similarly, CaterRent provides fondue set rentals but does not mention the rental period. It is best to contact these companies directly to inquire about their specific rental durations and policies.

Some companies, such as Aero Rental in Iowa City, IA, provide fondue pot rentals without stating a standard rental duration on their website. They encourage customers to call with any questions, so it is advisable to contact them directly to discuss your desired rental period.

When renting a fondue pot, it is essential to consider the duration you will need it for. Most companies will provide a rental period that aligns with the typical usage time for a fondue pot, which is generally a few hours to a full day. However, if you have a more extended event or require the fondue pot for a unique project, you may need to discuss customized rental options with the company.

Fondue pot rental cancellation policies

Timing of Cancellation

The timing of your cancellation will likely impact the applicable policy. Many companies offer full or partial refunds if the cancellation occurs a certain number of days or weeks before the scheduled rental date. For example, Unique Party Rental allows customers to reschedule their rental due to rain at no extra cost if 24-hour notice is given.

Reason for Cancellation

The reason for cancelling your fondue pot rental may also affect the cancellation policy. Some companies may offer more flexible options or waivers of certain fees for cancellations due to unforeseen circumstances or emergencies. Be sure to review the rental company's policies and any applicable laws regarding cancellations.

Fees and Penalties

When cancelling a fondue pot rental, you may be subject to fees or penalties, especially if the cancellation occurs close to the rental date. These fees could include a cancellation fee, a percentage of the rental cost, or the forfeiture of any deposits or pre-payments made. In some cases, you may be able to reschedule your rental for a future date instead of cancelling altogether, which may incur a smaller fee or no fee at all.

Refund Policy

The refund policy for cancellations will vary depending on the rental company. Some companies may offer full refunds if the cancellation meets certain criteria (e.g., cancelled within a specific time frame), while others may only provide partial refunds or issue credits towards future rentals. It's important to understand the refund policy before finalizing your rental reservation.

Communication and Documentation

When cancelling your fondue pot rental, be sure to communicate your decision to the rental company promptly and clearly. Follow any specific instructions provided by the company for cancelling, such as submitting a cancellation request form or contacting a particular customer service representative. Keep records of your communication and any relevant documentation, including rental agreements, receipts, and confirmation emails.

Example Cancellation Policies

To give you a better idea, here are some fondue pot rental companies and their respective cancellation policies:

• Unique Party Rental: Allows customers to reschedule their rental due to rain at no extra cost with 24-hour notice.
• Orrman's Cheese Shop: Offers 24-hour rentals and requires a credit card to be placed on file in case of damages upon return.

Frequently asked questions