The new Andy’s Frozen Custard in downtown Tyler at Plaza Tower has outdoor seating, pictured here on its opening day, Wednesday, May 27, 2020.

Fans of Andy’s Frozen Custard now have two locations in Tyler to grab dessert or satisfy their sweet tooth craving.

The downtown location in the Plaza Tower opened Wednesday with excitement from employees and customers alike.

Melina Perez, of Tyler, enjoyed custard with her sister, nieces and nephews Wednesday afternoon. She said she will be coming to Andy’s more often since the downtown shop is closer to her house.

“It’s close to home because I literally live around the corner,” Perez said. “The No. 1 thing I like is the ice cream. My favorite is the Titanic and all the different toppings.”

Caleb Gusa, store manager, said there has been outpouring of an interest from people regarding the new downtown location.

“Everybody walking by is wanting in the door,” he said.

Gusa said there’s no drive-thru and only walk-ins for the downtown location. Patrons will also have access to the Plaza Tower lobby and be able to use patio seating.

Due to the COVID-19 restrictions, the downtown shop is open to 50% capacity. There’s sanitizer for customers and plexiglass installed around the counter, he said.

“For the most part, it feels like business as usual,” Gusa said. “We’re really excited to be a part of this area in the community.

Gusa also noted how Andy’s downtown spot has several restaurant neighbors. He called Plaza Tower a one-stop shop with Cafe 1948 and True Vine Brewing Co. next door.

“Until working on opening this location, I’ve never realized how many places there are to eat,” Gusa said.

Landon Rodgers, store manager, said the downtown location provides the same menu items, employees and customer service.

“It’s new but it’s also fun,” Rodgers said. “We get to use the same skills there (on Broadway) but it’s a different environment.”

Andy Bergfeld, managing partner for the Plaza Tower, said it feels great to add Andy’s Frozen Custard to the tower’s retail mix.

“What’s really nice is seeing all the people coming and going,” Bergfeld said. “It’s fun to see people out.”

He said the Plaza Tower retail spots add variety to downtown and brings more life and activity to the square.

Other shop locations are also planning to reopen soon after being shut down due to coronavirus.

True Vine Brewing Co.’s downtown spot will be opening once the allowed occupancy for bars increases. Cafe 1948 is expected to open sometime in June, and the Chick-fil-A is set to open in about two weeks, Bergfeld said.

The Visit Tyler office is also located in the Plaza Tower but it’s currently closed due to COVID-19.

The tower lobby also opened Wednesday for guests and tenants, Bergfeld said. There is one interior space near the lobby and a few office spaces left in Plaza Tower.