 Pretzels have a long and storied history with legends dating back to the Middle Ages, but thanks to Opa's Pretzels arrival in St. Thomas, we no longer have to experience the Dark Ages as the traditional German style soft pretzel is experiencing a bit of a Renaissance. One pretzel tale claims in 1614 Switzerland, royal couples used pretzels in wedding ceremonies as a similar practice to wishbones. In fact, many believe this may have led to the phrase "tying the knot." Regardless of its origins, the pretzel quickly became a staple across Europe, beloved by peasants and nobility. It wasn't just a tasty snack but a symbol of good luck and prosperity. In some regions, it was customary for children to wear pretzel necklaces on New Year's Day for good fortune.  Opa When you step into Opa's Pretzels, you may even catch an image of Oma sporting the look, sharing that good fortune with granddaughters Karen and Kaitlin, who are twisting up their own tale with their Opa's traditional German-style pretzels as the main character. It begins nestled in the charming town of Goulais River outside Sault Ste. Marie, a family with a deep love for soft pretzels, lived. Their story revolves around their beloved Opa, whose homemade pretzels were the stuff of legend at family gatherings and special occasions. When Opa passed away seven years ago, his tradition of baking pretzels didn't fade away; instead, it became a legacy carried on by his grandchildren, Karen and Kaitlin.
Karen and Kaitlin relocated to London and St. Thomas, where they felt the absence of authentic soft pretzels in their new surroundings. Armed with their Opa's recipe and a craving for a taste of home, the sisters embarked on a baking spree one night; a humble act would spark a culinary revolution in their community. The pretzels were an instant hit among family and friends, and demand soon outstripped their baking capacity. What started as a small venture to satisfy cravings quickly became a full-fledged business endeavour. Markets and local restaurants clamoured for Opa's Pretzels, bringing a new chapter for the sisters. Setting up shop in St. Thomas was a natural choice for Karen and Kaitlin. Not only did they find a supportive community eager to embrace their venture, but it also offered the convenience of being close to home.  What truly sets Opa's Pretzels apart is the experience they offer with every bite. Visitors can taste the essence of Germany, crafted with love and care, just like Opa used to make. From savoury classics to unexpected delights like cinnamon sugar dips, there's something to tantalize every palate. What sets them apart is their unwavering commitment to authenticity. Each pretzel is a testament to their Opa's heritage, baked fresh daily using traditional techniques passed down through generations. Each bite offers a warm sense of home, whether you claim German heritage or not! A sense of family emanates from the first interaction with Karen and Kaitlin - one they plan to maintain as they grow. Their journey wasn't without its challenges. Like any small business, they face hurdles along the way. However, with determination and a sprinkle of entrepreneurial spirit, the pair navigates the ups and downs, fueled by their passion for creating something extraordinary to share with the community. Despite the challenges of the past year, the warmth and support of the St. Thomas community have been a hopeful motivator for Karen and Kaitlin. Every visit to their bakery is more than just a transaction; it's a chance to share the love and passion that goes into every pretzel. And don't forget the mustard butter... it offers the perfect balance of sharp Dijon for the flaky salt and butter, a simple yet magical complement to their traditional pretzel, but be sure to explore the sweet options or add pretzel buns to your BBQ. Enjoy authenticity, passion, and a taste of home in every twist!  If You GoIf you have yet to have the pleasure of tasting these twisted creations, the shop in Downtown St. Thomas is celebrating its grand opening on February 23 2024 from 5:30 to 7:30 at its new location, 578 Talbot St. Regular Hours: Wednesday - Friday from 12pm-6:30pm Saturdays at the Horton Farmers' Market AuthorWritten by Sarah from the Elgin/St. Thomas Small Business Enterprise Centre
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