Mix 1 ½ c. warm water, sugar, 2 tsp. salt, and yeast to dissolve yeast in bowl of a mixer. Add flour and melted butter. Mix until dough forms and clears the sides of the bowl. (about 5 minutes) Let rise in lightly greased bowl for 50-55 minutes, or until doubled in size. Preheat oven to 450°F. Bring 10 cups of water and baking soda to a boil in a large, wide pot. Shape dough into 8 pretzels. Boil each pretzel for 30 seconds, and remove with a slotted spatula and place on cookie sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. In a small bowl, beat together egg yolk and 1 T. water to make an egg wash. Brush egg wash on top of boiled pretzels and sprinkle with salt. Bake 12-14 minutes or until golden brown or darker on edges. Let cool slightly and serve with something yummy. Marinara sauce, nacho cheese, or caramel sauce are good options.