Auntie Anne's open in Dewey

Auntie Anne's pretzels is open on Route 1 in Dewey Beach, offering a new snack spot where pretzel-lovers across the Cape Region will be able to pick up hot, buttery twists.

The Chandler family, which also owns Auntie Anne's locations in the Milford Walmart and also in Salisbury, has been looking for a beach location for years, Gary Chandler said.

"We just feel this is a good location," he said. "We've been trying to get in the area for about the last eight years."

The opening of Auntie Anne's comes as good news to Dewey Beach resident Joy Bohan, who was one of the first customers in line at the grand opening party.

"We are glad to see Auntie Anne's; we are glad to see anything come to Dewey," Bohan said. "This is mostly because we have grandkids. They love this kind of stuff, and it means we don't have to go out of town."

Classic pretzels will be available, along with other Auntie Anne's favorites like pretzel-wrapped hot dogs and bites, Chandler said. The shop also serves sandwiches, snacks and even ice cream.

"We bought out what was originally the Dewey Bull sandwich shop so we can still offer their sandwiches and beachy foods," he said. "We are also carrying Auntie Anne's panninis and breakfast sandwiches."

Carvel soft-serve ice cream and milkshakes will round out offerings that also include an extended hot dog line with chili, cheese, Chicago and Reuben-style toppings.

Gary's son, Russ Chandler, will be operating the Dewey Beach shop with plans to open at 8 a.m. and remain open through the bar rush from 1 to 2 a.m., Russ said.

He expects summer visitors will be happy to have a new option for Dewey dining, almost round-the-clock some days, and locals have been welcoming.

"This is going to offer something different than a cheesesteak,"  Russ said. "More like a snack."

For more information, call the new location of Auntie Annes in Dewey Beach at 302-212-2254 or place an order by fax at 302-212-2354.