KEARNEY, Neb. — Downtown Kearney is getting a fresh twist on a classic treat.

The Knot Shop is a new soft-baked pretzel store from local entrepreneur Kyle Sayler, and it officially opens its doors Friday, November 7 at 6 p.m.

Sayler also owns the nearby business Cellar Screen Printing, and says the idea came after seeing how much families enjoyed visiting the downtown ice cream shop The Golden Spoon, which is next door.

“I saw all the families coming, all the smiles going in and out the door,” said Sayler. “That’s when I started thinking, what’s something that could complement that and keep people downtown a little longer?”

The answer turned out to be pretzels — but not just the standard salted kind. The menu features both classic bites and bold creations, including the “Juggerknot”, which is loaded with pepperoni, ham, jalapenos, parmesan and a drizzle of the shop’s signature "Knotty Sauce."

Sweeter options like peanut butter and jelly pretzels are also on the list.

“We wanted something handheld, fun and just a little different,” said Sayler. “Something people could grab, walk around with and really enjoy.”

The Knot Shop will serve customers from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and stay open until 1:30 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays for anyone looking for a late-night snack downtown.

“We’ll be there when people are out and about,” Sayler said with a laugh. “There’s not very much open that late.”

The new business is located at 9 North Railroad, on the bricks in Downtown Kearney.