Hand-rolled soft pretzels are twisted and baked while customers watch at this popular snack chain.

by Gina Goff

In Short
Located primarily in mall and airport food courts, this self-proclaimed chain of "appetite spoilers" has satisfied carb cravings since opening its first pretzel stand at a Mayland farmers' market in 1987. In addition to the traditional salted twists, other warm, doughy treats include almond-crusted, cinnamon-dusted, garlic-laden and sesame-seed-covered varieties. More freshly made selections, such as dough-wrapped hot dogs and "pretzel stix," come with a choice of dipping sauces, ranging from cheese to mustard, caramel to marinara.