So, here are some pictures of classic pretzel stands in NYC. They are pretty common across NYC. THEY ARE LITERALLY ALL OVER NYC.. LIKE EVERYWHERE. They all taste around the same to be quite honest but try to find some stands that look sanitary since some look quite grungy as the day wears on along NYC. Some good tips to abide by when trying to find a good and sanitary pretzel area are:that they sell a multitude of items, they have pretzels that are currently baking when you buy one (ask for the one that is currently baking), and just that the seller doesn't look sketchy :/.
Here's a common logo of many vendors that sell pretzels in slightly more legit places.... Central park has a lot of these pretzels by this company. In my opinion, these pretzels don't taste much different AND you usually have to pay more and wait in lines. Definitely not my preference but if you're scared about contracting any diseases, New York Pretzel is a guaranteed brand for you.