Facebook fans of The Pretzel Hut restaurant were hit with one heck of a Valentine’s Day social media surprise.
New owners!
The Pretzel Hut in Brickerville, a big regional favorite in northern Lancaster County for its fare and petting zoo, announced new ownership Feb. 14. Former owners Angie and Tom Rabold posed with new owners Kathi and Dwight Zimmerman for a photo in front of the establishment’s beloved sign on Route 501 and the group shared the photo to social media.
“The post received hundreds of replies and shows of support from all over Pennsylvania and beyond, as it is a summer destination for many families up and down the East Coast,” read a statement from the Zimmerman family, who will speak to the media closer to their restaurant’s opening.
“New owners Kathi and Dwight are local Valentines who were actively pursuing a spot like The Pretzel Hut when it became available,” continued the statement.
“It has been a dream for their family for some time, as both Kathi and Dwight grew up in the snack and food business, finding great happiness in sharing hospitality.”
The couple explained that Dwight grew up on a dairy farm (where home-grown food and good ice cream were VERY important), and that Kathi enjoys making delicious comfort food. They said that Kathi is looking forward to managing the restaurant as she honors the original Pretzel Hut menu and adds some new homemade additions of her own.
“Kathi and Dwight’s kiddos are super excited to be the official taste-testers this season and with the support of their local family and friends, they look forward to carrying on the legacy of the Pretzel Hut, starting with the 2024 fun-filled season,” the statement ended.
Late last year, the Rabolds decided to seek retirement and listed the restaurant and petting zoo for sale. They expressed hopes at the time that the new owner would maintain the existing business model, and it appears that those hopes have been fulfilled.
Read More: The Pretzel Hut listed for sale
Facebook comments were enthusiastic in thanking Angie and Rabold for their food and hospitality, and warmly welcoming the Zimmermans, with the post receiving thousands of engagements on the social network.
To stay updated as a 2024 opening date is announced, follow the restaurant on Facebook.
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