A year-and-a-half after a devastating fire forced it to shut down, Center City Pretzel has finally reopened to its pretzel-loving customers, writes Maggie Kent for 6abc.

Prior to its forced closure in 2022, Center City Pretzel had been a South Philadelphia staple for over 40 years.

Its giant oven, which is responsible for turning the dough into delicious golden pretzels, was heavily damaged due to the fire.

However, upon its reopening day, customers were ready to reignite their love for the iconic bakery.

“It’s a Philadelphia tradition. We’ve been waiting for this place to reopen since it closed. Best pretzel in the city. Best you can get here,” said Rick Urban, a South Philly resident. 

While owner Erika Tonelli Bonnett is grateful to finally reopen and get this operation back up and running, she highlights that she had to overcome several hurdles to get to this point.

Just months before the fire, her father passed away.

“You name it, we came up against it,” said Bonnett. “I will say I would’ve made the decision to leave 16 months ago but his name is on this, his legacy is behind it, I could not let it go.”

Read more about Center City Pretzel Company’s successful return after an 18-month hiatus in 6abc.

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