Center City Pretzel Co.

I love pretzels. Especially the soft baked variety. Due to my love of Pretzels' I decided to order some online as I am not from Philly (Cincinnati). Best decision ever! They were amazing. What impressed me even more is the owner Erika. I respected Erika so much after watching her on the Vice documentary. You can tell she is a very thoughtful and caring person who is hard working, has strong values, is smart, and also strong. My mother recently passed in January of 2025 and she would have loved Erika. "Girl power!!"

Good hardy pretzels being cranked out fresh every morning! They are a little dense but will definitely fill you up. It was warm when you walked in and the pretzel smells were pleasing. Easy to take on the go, and I had mine with honey mustard. Most importantly, these are wicked affordable at 85 cents so you can't go wrong. The parking was pretty manageable as well.

Amazing Amazing Amazing Best pretzel 🥨 ever would drive two hours for this every time

Best pretzels you’ll ever have. A MUST try if you are new to Philly. The service is very friendly and you will love supporting a local business. The prices are cheaper than pretzel factory as well, and you get more pretzel! Make sure to catch them early before they sell out. 100x better if you get them fresh off the oven too. Also a $10 card minimum

A dozen pretzels for $10, can’t beat that! Literally the best I had in my life, came out hot & steaming. Definitely get the nacho cheese sauce! They were soooooo nice, worth the trip🤪🤪 *CASH ONLY

These guys are literally the best pretzels in town! Bring cash, tip well. Great prices too and service with a smile. This is my pretzel holy grail, so glad I stumbled across it!

Center City Pretzel Co.: A Philly Must-Visit Every time I’m in Philly, there’s one stop I can’t miss—Center City Pretzel Co. Their pretzels? Simply unbelievable. The freshness, the perfect chew, that signature golden-brown crust—it’s everything a pretzel should be and more. Beyond the incredible taste, the friendly staff makes the experience even better. You can feel the passion behind every batch, and it’s no surprise this spot has been around for so long. Quality like this isn’t easy to find, but Center City Pretzel Co. delivers it effortlessly. If you love pretzels—or just great food in general—this place is a blessing. Whether you’re a local or just passing through Philly, you owe it to yourself to stop by. 🔥🥨

This red-tailed hawk knows where to go for the best pretzels in town! Fresh from the oven, a classic Philly food destination! 🥨

I received five of these gems Friday that were shipped on Wednesday. They arrived w coarse salt and packets of Gulden's spicy brown mustard. The vacuum packaging sealed in fine flavor and all of the quintessential Philly soft & chewy experience. TY Sandy for this sumptuous BD present.

Okay so not only do they make the best pretzels in town (was tragic they were closed for so long), but I have also learned they make bachelorette pretzels (see pic). I think it's about $35 for 2 dozen pretzels, not including the big one for the bride. They were a big hit during a recent bach in Philly. Call ahead to order and as always, prepare to stand in line (it moves quickly). The only thing that compares to immediately breaking into your paper bag of warm pretzels may be chowing down on your water ice before it melts on your way home. If John's and CCPCo were open at the same time, I would 10000% be going to both in one trip.

After seeing your reply, I will update the review. It still doesn't fix the matter of the hard/burnt pretzels. We never had any issues in the past. We will try again in February. Thank you all.

They're back! Last year I was tasked with putting together a best of Philly list for a wedding. One of my deepest regrets was not being able to add CC Pretzels to that list. A little over an 18 month delay, but I must say the wait was worth it. Environment The hours haven't changed upon reopening and you can still pickup pretzels starting at 6am. When I arrived at 5:50am there were already 4 or so people in line(in the rain). Upon entering, you'll quickly notice the store can hold no more than 3-4 people at a time and the list of items to purchase extends to pretzels, cheese and mustard. Every time I've ever visited there's always a collection of regulars who liven up the otherwise small setting. Food As noted above, the pretzels are the star of the show! You can find pretzels anywhere in Philly yet somehow the ones offered at CC Pretzels are kinder on the teeth and the wallet for the quality received. Soft and modestly flavorful. If someone were to ever task me with putting together another "Wonders of Philly" list ,Center City Pretzels would make the cut. Happy eating!

They have a 100 year old, 50 feet oven. The pretzels taste proper here. Eat it with the nacho cheese.

Best pretzels in the universe soft chewy and perfect. I could eat them for breakfast lunch and dinner.

Serving up some of the best Philadelphia has to offer! Center City Pretzel Co. Is the truth, people! I've been coming here for 5 years now & they always satisfy that doughy bread & salt craving. They're very fairly priced- .85 cents a pop! Arrive a little early because they're only open 6AM-11AM.

This is THE place for pretzels in Philly. Will come here every time I visit. Soft, perfect amount of salt.

Can't get any better than these original. Authentic Philadelphia pretzel ...only one you need to try

Friendly and one of the best pretzels we've ever had! They close at 11am so gotta be early.

Best pretzels in Philly! They travel well if you can restrain from eating them all up on a long car ride.

The best pretzels in the city, and it's not even close! Can't wait until they're back open. If you're in the area, this is the only place to get a pretzel.

Can't wait until they're open again after the fire that forced them to close. Best !!

I grew up in South Jersey, which means I also grew up on pretzels. These guys make, without a question, the best pretzels I've ever had. They're currently temporarily closed after an electrical fire last year. I've supported them via GoFundMe, and if anyone wants to help out, please consider donating: https://www.gofundme.com/f/please-help-us-reopen-after-the-fire

True Authentic Philly Soft Pretzels that we grew up eating

We're visiting Philly from Chicago, so naturally we had to try a real soft pretzel. And let me tell you, these bad boys live up to the hype. Doughy, salty deliciousness served out of an industrial space with the kindest host. Go see Anthony and get your craving satisfied.

So, my fondest memory of this place i circa 2011 when I first moved to Philly and would be out at the bar and when the bars closed we would swing by this mysterious pretzel factory on Washington ave that i never bothered to determine the exact location of but we always seemed to successfully locate, and buy hot pretzels and dipping sauces and eat like 2.5 pretzel's back at my first Philly apartment, which was absolutely terrible but had it's own charm, and then pass out. Now, it seems, the hours are different, so you can't replicate that I'm afraid. They seem to be open during the morning 6 a.m. - 11 a.m., so you need to snag your fresh pretzels for breakfast. TBH that sounds pretty good too.

I love freshly baked bread. In all forms. I also love Philly pretzels. Now, the uninitiated might think these pretzels taste just like the traditional looking ones you see slowly rotating in a warmer at cafeterias or movie theaters. Wrong. These pretzels are delicious. The closest thing would be the pretzels sold at Wawa's. Is the location boho chic? Cute little hipster spot? Nay! They are here to make massive quantities of pretzels and they do it superbly. That's it. I ordered a dozen (don't judge) and you can't beat the price ~$0.50 each. I dare you to find that anywhere and that includes Wawa.

I love pretzels, but it's tough to find the pretzels of my youth. A large chain entered the area and now you can't find the good stuff around. Everyone has the big chain with their subpar pretzels. I found out this place from you on Yelp. Thank you. This place has the potential to be the best pretzel out there. Looking at these, they are thicker than most others. Great sign! Good flavor. Hot in the bag... I chewed a piece when I got back into my car, a piece of the side and it tasted kind of doughy... Hmm... The ends tasted fantastic with the texture and flavor I crave. When I got to the center of the pretzel, it had that doughy taste again. I don't think it was quite done... So sad... Still, maybe I just caught them at a bad time and they grabbed these for me too early? I've been meaning to go here for years, so I don't know when I'll be back, but I will give this place another shot, hoping my issues was a one time deal. Maybe I shouldn't have eaten them so fast and let them steam a bit in the bag... During Covid times it was 1 person (or family) at a time. I was in a tiny line when I got there, but it moved fast.

This is the only place to get a real pretzel. Buy ''em by the dozen you'll thank me. Another plus is the building. Incognito and weather worn they bake them on decades old equipment and serve them in brown paper bags. Perfection!

Very disappointed they are CLOSED with no mention on their website, Yelp, etc. According to front door sign today they had an electrical fire on 9/27/22 and now closed. Sorry about the fire but wanted to let people know not to travel to this location for pickup.

Fresh hot soft pretzels with the perfect amount of salt. Can't ask for a tastier soft pretzel. $0.50 per pretzel. I came here on a Monday around 11:30AM and there was one other customer. Super quick and fast service. There's a gallon of spicy mustard outside for you to pump onto your pretzels. They close by 12PM, Monday through Wednesday.

GET HERE EARLY for the freshest, chewiest, and most authentic Philly soft pretzels! Maybe you'll even get a warm one, straight off the conveyor. You might think you know a true Philly pretzel from the ones you've tried at the Philly Pretzel Factory chains, local Wawa locations, or some other inferior place... but you haven't. This place is a long-time Philly staple and dare I say, landmark, that has stood the test of time. They mainly fulfill large, commercial orders, but they make extras for any walk-ins. I have been coming here my entire life! I remember that when I was little, they were 5 pretzels for $1. While prices have increased over the years to 2 for $1... they are more than worth it! Eat it with your choice of mustard-- I won't judge. But my favorite with it is brown spicy mustard :)

The only place in Philadelphia you will find real, authentic Philly pretzels! I am fortunate that I live near the neighborhood and can stop by as often as I do. This is one of the most top requested places to go from friends and family come in from out of town. The pretzels are made homemade every morning. If you get lucky, you can see them rolling off fresh and hot right out of the oven. The place is tiny, pretty much just a pickup window. If you weren't looking for it, you'd probably pass right by it. This place is a must stop for locals and visitors.

Absolutely best pretzels hands down!!!!! Can NOT wait for them to reopen, I have been craving the warm crispy deliciousness!!

I dream about these pretzels. Consistently delicious and so so so perfect. Can't wait until the store reopens.

This is my goto place to pick up soft pretzels!!! I have been going here for years! The pretzels are always awesome from here! Crispy on the outside, soft, and warm in the inside !!

When you bite in a warm, crispy ,chewy & soft fresh pretzel you know it is delicious!

Still a great place to grab a pretzel. Nice amount of salt, crispy crust with a soft center. They are always hot or warm you can see them roll off the oven. A place you must visit.

As good as I remembered them from grade school!

I am offended by myself, that living in Philadelphia for 12 years I had not visited, or even known about this place! My friend introduced me to it and we visited around 10am in the morning, mind their hours. I'm telling you, the aroma alone when you walk in will make you fall in love. But the freshness of a freshly baked pretzel, and to eat it when it's warm and fresh there's nothing like it. I can't tell you how many times I made unspeakable questionable noises while ingesting my first, but certainly not my last from CCP. Don't be like me, don't live in Philly or visit without eating a pretzel from here -- it's the real deal.

4/5 pretzel 5/5 hospitality I just visited the place at 11:30 so I made in time for their last batches. Probably the reason why the pretzel itself wasn't as soft, but the crunchy exterior + salt def had me going for bite after bite. But I just simply had a hearwarming, philly experience. I forgot to bring cash like a dummy and didn't even bring my atm card with me. The guy handed my 4 pretzel with mustard over in the most sincere way and told me that next time in the area, I can pay for it. Being in small business myself, the gesture meant more than just pretzel to me. I'll definitely be back earlier next time with extra cash to pay for my visit today.

Not really a pretzel person, but ordered one after reading the reviews - probably the better of the ones I've had in Philly so far! Liked that you could have it delivered, since the hours and distance are far for me.

I'm neither a Philly foodie nor someone who is fond of pretzels in general, but I am certainly a fan of these warm, salted, twisted-knots of wholesome and doughy goodness. Yeah, I think that's enough adjectives... PRICE and TASTE: 24 pieces for $8. I also bought a couple bottles of peppered bran mustard at $3 each. The pretzels on their own are great! There is a good chew in each bite, but it's still soft. I love how how simple their pretzels are--salted on top and nothing else. A squirt of the smooth tasting mustard is a perfect match; it's not overpowering whatsoever. If you are not a fan of mustard, they have others dips/sauces (like cheese) available as well. I highly recommend eating the pretzels while they're still warm. SERVICE: The owner/proprietor and who I believe is the owner's son are very friendly and accommodating. I ordered a dozen for someone back in Jersey, and they were kind enough to put that order in a separate brown bag. LOCATION & PARKING: There is no designated parking, but there is a pay-to-park lot a few yards away. While it is convenient to double-park, I won't endorse that; I'll leave it to you to decide how you park. I shall return. I stopped by at around 11:30pm (30 minutes before closing, which is 12PM), and the flow of customers was non-stop. That alone speaks to how strong of a following Center City Pretzel Co. has gained and established over the years.

I could not believe that I could get a pretzel for 50c. The shape is unique but worth it. You can be in and out in less than a minute depending on the number of people ahead of you. You definitely need the mustard. I've definitely had better pretzels but this one is worth it.

Finally went in around 10:30am (they are open 6am-12pm Mon-Wed). This time I called ahead to make sure they were open and selling pretzels. It's just a small, to-the-point joint with basically a conveyor belt of pretzels going through the massive oven. The people were super nice. We bought a bag of six super cheap, DELICIOUS pretzels. There are the best pretzels I've ever had: soft, flavorful, slightly crispy on the outside, not too salty. So fresh and just out of the oven. Not even comparable to the other Philly pretzels that have been sitting there, getting hard and chewy. Definitely an experience that everyone must have.

I believe that a box of these warm and steamy carbolicious bites can solve all the problems in the world. Conflict in the Gaza Strip, Democrats and Republican standoff, inner city gangs, just hand out these pretzels and the world becomes a happy place. In all seriousness if I could pick my final meal on earth there would be a stack of these with a cup of honey mustard on the plate. There is no more perfect comfort food and no more iconic Philadelphia experience than double parking in front of the Center City pretzel factory, walking up to the window and watching your warm delicious pretzels fall off the conveyor into a brown bag. The speedy walk back to the car is on the verge of too long to wait to shove my hand in the bag and rip off a soft warm pretzel corner. It's a quasi religious experience. This place is midnight to noon to be mindful of the hours. Friendly happy staff (heck who wouldn't be happy surrounded by hot pretzels all day!) and prices are almost ridiculous. No better way to spend a dollar but who am I kidding? I never leave with less than 20. (For $7.00!!) I freeze the extras same day and nuke them later. I hope this place outlives me.

It would be just plain wrong to give a pretzel baker 5 stars....but I did consider it... I stop in here once a week at about 3am while I'm working. Its pretty hard to not stop here knowing that the three I order are coming straight out of the oven.

A hidden gem on Washington ave! Delicious pretzels for only 50¢ each (price per pretzel goes down the more you buy). Definitely the best pretzel I've had in Philadelphia! Things to know: cash only open from 4am until they run out or around 11am get your mustard here!

I went at 8AM, so I knew I wasn't going at the right time. According to other reviews, the pretzels are freshest at midnight, so I was probably getting an 8 hour old pretzel. And accordingly, I could taste that my pretzel wasn't fresh out of the oven. But I could also taste that the pretzel would've been amazing at midnight - soft and warm. Despite that, I'm glad I went. From the storefront, I could tell this place had been around for awhile, and I love that you can see the giant oven right in the front. I also love the prices - 3 for $1, though 1 was enough for me since the pretzels are pretty filling.

Great pretzels! Was in philly for the weekend and was craving a soft pretzel without too much salt and this was perfect for me. Ordered 10 and they made it back to NY well. Will have to go back next time I'm in the area. Only down side was that they closed at 10:30 on Sunday morning so I had to rush there before they closed.

Hands down THE best soft pretzel you will ever eat! This place is not to be confused with the soft pretzel chains that are sprinkled all over. This is the real deal! There's nothing like 'em. I used to come every single night (technically morning-3/4am but I don't consider it the next day and you have gone to sleep and woken up again, but anyway...) when I worked in the club scene and these hot, fresh, literally right off the belt pretzels were something I looked forward to so very much. Such a treat! You can't just buy one. I mean you can, but at 3 for $1 why would you? Trust me, you can eat more than one. Even you skinny girls out there! I haven't been there in quite awhile as my lifestyle doesn't allow me to head over in the middle of the night anymore and that's really the best time to go in my opinion. I actually did take the kiddos there last night because I was dreaming of these and knew they just HAD to try one being soft pretzel lovers like they are. I told the kids that this place is only opened late at night not realizing until we got there at 10pm that they don't open until midnight and that my "late at night" is drastically different than what my old "late at night" was. I guess I really should make it a point to head there real early in the morning for the kiddos because everyone from Philly or traveling through Philly should taste these when they're just baked! The guys who work there are all so sweet too. Oh, and don't you dare forget the mustard!

How did I not know about this place until I came back to visit this fine city just last week? I received a recommendation from someone, and supposedly this place is not new. They are open generally from midnight to 12noon (that's right, not open most of the day); however, I suggest you check the website, as I recall the hours being different on the weekend. We arrived at this place at midnight on a Monday night/Tuesday morning and it is just a small storefront in this factory type of place that makes pretzels. That is all they make...just pretzels. They are the kind you would get from other pretzel places and you can buy an individual one; however, you can also buy them in quantities of dozens and hundreds. I am guessing they supply them to other vendors; however, I can tell you that this is one of the best pretzels I have had. Is it better because they are fresh out of the oven? Maybe! It is not just the pretzels. They also had several dipping sauces available including cheese and mustard. The sauces we got were excellent. They also have some sodas available. I believe we got a dozen pretzels, a soda and four dipping sauces for about $8.00. It was a crazy good deal. Perfect for parties! Please go and support this business.

I've since given CCP another try and after living in philly for almost a year, these are some of the best pretzels in town. Ya gotta get here early because they will sell out!

Our HS sports teams would get boxes of these pretzels for after games, and I finally made a point to go myself while I was in the area. This is a completely small counter/storefront for the bakery's main operation of mass production of the finest pretzels in Philly. Every pretzel comes out exactly right with the perfect density, chew, and flavor. They come still-warm from the ovens in racks of ten. Highly suggest bringing cash, a dozen is $4 (a steal, really), and you can get a hundred to go in an instant (I did, to bring back for my office in DC). It's Philly, and you can't do better than Center City Pretzel.

Looking to have one of the most authentic Philly breakfast experiences of your life? Skip the bagels, skip the brunches, and go straight here for a pretzel. Hot, fresh out the oven pretzels at an amazing price that cannot be beat. I typically get three pretzels which is almost too much for one serving, but I really can't resist taking another bite every time. Mustard options here are also great, and would highly recommend you pick one up -- especially if you're trying to complete the true Philly breakfast feeling. This location has no seating or really any place to stand after you get your food so plan on getting everything to go. If you're looking for a place to sit down and eat, I might recommend the small park at 10th and Carpenter where they have several picnic tables where you can hang with friends. This is one of the places I always take people for an authentic taste of Philadelphia food whenever we do a walking tour. If you're anywhere in South Philly during their open hours I would definitely recommend you swing by.

Who doesn't love a good pretzel!?!? I guess a lot of people. I like pretzels. I used to have the chain pretzels, then I discovered GOOD/FRESH pretzels, similar to a great bagel, i now appreciate pretzels, Center City is as good as it gets... Thank you Pretzel.

Let me start my review by saying that I don't normally enjoy pretzels. For me, they always seemed too dense and salty. I always want to take a nap after eating one chain-brand Pretzel Factory or Auntie Anne's pretzel. Center City Pretzel Co is on another level. Their pretzels are homemade and incredibly simple. They're light and fluffy, so I don't feel a "hangover" after eating one. The pretzels are also cheap! I can get a popular snack for my coworkers or my kickball team for less than $5. How cool is that?

My day was made when I got my hands on the old school pretzels I used to get on the playground at my catholic school. I am so happy I found out about this place. I got a boatload of pretzels w mustard... yum!