I popped into Eastland Mall over the weekend, and one thing stood out to me so much that I had to take a picture.

Photo: Eastland Mall Credit: Liberty
Photo: Eastland Mall Credit: Liberty
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The End of Pretzel Wars in Evansville

If you've been to the food court inside Eastland Mall in the past couple of years, you probably noticed that there were two pretzel chains located very close to each other. Ben's Pretzels occupied the corner spot. A couple of steps over and you're at Chick-fil-A and then Auntie Anne's. However, Ben's Pretzels is now a closed space.

What's Up With Ben's Pretzels?

I just found out that Ben's Soft Pretzels was founded in Elkhart, Indiana. The company has partnerships with Indiana-based sports venues such as Purdue University and Indiana State University athletic departments. We can still find Ben's at an Otters game this summer. Their pretzels are known for their large size and unique Amish/Dutch recipe. 

Auntie Anne's also offers snacks at Subway locations.

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Auntie Anne's or Ben's Pretzels; Which is Best?

I have conducted my own research about what people like about each pretzel chain. This was a blind taste test and hands down Auntie Anne's was the winner. I liked that Ben's offered pretzel pizzas and that the line was usually a lot shorter. Price-wise, both snack spots are on the expensive end. By the time you buy the pretzel or nuggets, then add a sauce, and a drink, it adds up to a full meal.

Businesses That Have Closed in 2025, So Far

Several restaurants, bars, and businesses have closed in Central New York.

Gallery Credit: Credit - Polly McAdams

Then and Now - See Inside Evansville, Indiana's Eastland Mall

Eastland Mall opened in 1981, and it has changed a lot through the years. JC. Penny still anchors the mall on one end, and what was Lazarus Department Store is now Macy's.

Gallery Credit: Liberty

Then & Now - Evansville's Washington Square Mall Through the Years

Evansville is home to a lot of unique buildings including the first enclosed retail shopping center in Indiana. Yes, our very own Washington Square Mall was the place to be when it opened in 1963. If you walk through the mall today, you would never guess how alive the shops were, even through the 1980s. Enjoy this walk down memory lane I've put together, and maybe someday there will be new life inside 5011 Washington Ave.

Gallery Credit: Liberty