This Dreamy Alpine Pop-Up Is Melbourne’s Hottest Winter Ticket

We’ve partnered with Fondue Chalet to invite you to a pop-up experience that brings the delicious French fondue experience and tradition to the streets of Melbourne.

Think you need to fly to France to enjoy an après-ski fondue feast? Not this winter. Melbourne has taken a deliciously indulgent detour to the Alps with the arrival of Fondue Chalet—a winter pop-up that delivers all the charm of a snowy European escape to the heart of the city, minus the jetlag. From bubbling cheese pots to private timber chalets and mulled wine on arrival, this is the kind of winter magic they definitely didn’t teach in high school French.

Your Passport to Fondue Bliss

Following the melt-worthy success of last year’s Raclette Igloo dining series, the team behind Melbourne’s cosiest culinary experience is back with a new twist: fondue, but make it Alpine luxe.

Set against the city skyline on the rooftop of Fed Square, Fondue Chalet sets the mood from the moment you arrive. You’re welcomed by French waiters (oui, really) and handed a warm mug of spiced vin chaud, before being led to your very own intimate timber chalet—each one named after France’s most iconic ski resorts. Think flickering candles, vintage ski posters, and enough rustic timber to make you forget you’re still in Melbourne.

Inside, the main event bubbles away: Fondue Savoyarde, made with a rich blend of Comté, Beaufort, Emmental, and Vacherin—four traditional cheeses imported straight from France. Served in a traditional caquelon pot, the fondue invites you to tear, swirl, and dip crusty bread, potatoes, roasted seasonal vegetables, and a generous board of cured meats and pickles. This is comfort food at its finest, perfectly complemented by a glass of dry white or another warm pour of mulled wine (because why not?).

Between courses, if you’re not already in a cheese coma, step outside to toast a marshmallow at the firepit or head over to the Alpine ski bar for a winter cocktail or a glass from a curated selection of French wine. The atmosphere is pure après-ski magic, with snowflakes falling gently around you. No skis required—just good friends and great food.

The Melt-in-Your-Mouth Details

Ready to fondue? Fondue Chalet runs from 15th May to 22nd June, every Wednesday to Sunday with cosy sittings at 12:30pm, 5pm, 7pm, or 9pm. Book your own private timber chalet for 6 or 8 guests at just $99 per person—unlocking what might just be the dreamiest Alpine feast you’ve ever experienced.

Want to dial up the decadence? For the 12:30pm and 9pm sessions, indulge in the Godiva chocolate fondue add-on. A premium and rich creation served with fresh fruit and all the delicious trimmings for just $59 per chalet. It’s the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth (and snap that perfect Instagram shot).

Book your cosy Fondue Chalet experience here.

Cheese-laden, wine-warmed, and dripping in Alpine charm, Fondue Chalet is Melbourne’s ultimate winter indulgence. Whether you’re toasting to a birthday, huddling up for date night, or just embracing your inner Euro foodie with loved ones, this is one dining experience worth rugging up for. Après-ski vibes, no ski pass required. Book ahead—your chalet awaits.

Writer

Kelsey Harrington

22 April 2025

Kelsey Harrington is a Melbourne-based writer with a sharp eye for the city's ever-evolving food, wine, arts, and culture scene. Her journey into the creative industry took the scenic route—what started as a passion for capturing Melbourne’s energy through a camera lens led her to Sitchu, where she worked her way up to Melbourne Editor. With over four years in the industry, she’s all about uncovering the best places to eat, drink, and explore. Off the clock? You’ll find her diving into a platter of fresh oysters and crudo, gallery-hopping, or sipping an extra dirty martini while plotting her next adventure.