Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard Introduce
When the sun is shining in Pittsburgh, there’s nothing quite like a cold, delicious treat to cool you down and put a smile on your face. For many locals, the go-to destination for this sweet relief is Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard. This beloved shop has been a staple for years, bringing a taste of summer to the community with its extensive menu of vibrant flavors and creamy delights. Nestled conveniently on Babcock Boulevard, Rita's is more than just a place to get dessert; it's a neighborhood institution where families, friends, and individuals alike gather to enjoy a moment of happiness.
Rita's is particularly known for its signature Italian Ice, a smooth, refreshing, and dairy-free frozen treat made fresh daily. But that's just the beginning. The menu is a delightful fusion of Italian tradition and American frozen dessert innovation, offering everything from rich, old-fashioned frozen custard to decadent sundaes and blended creations. This wide variety ensures that whether you're a fan of classic fruit flavors or crave something rich and creamy, there's a perfect treat waiting for you. The commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients and a rotating selection of seasonal flavors keeps customers coming back to discover something new with every visit.
The atmosphere at Rita's is always friendly and welcoming, reflecting the community spirit of Pittsburgh. The staff is known for being accommodating and ready to help, whether you're a regular or a first-time visitor trying to decide between a Gelati and a Blendini. The passion for creating a great customer experience is evident, making every trip a pleasant one. From quick, efficient service to a clean and inviting environment, the shop provides a simple yet memorable way to satisfy your sweet tooth. This commitment to quality and service has solidified Rita's place as a cherished local spot, a true gem for anyone in the area looking for a sweet escape.
Located at 1320 Babcock Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15209, Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard is situated in a highly accessible area for residents throughout the region. Its position on a major thoroughfare makes it easy to get to from various parts of Pittsburgh and the surrounding neighborhoods. The shop's convenient location means you can swing by for a quick treat after work, a weekend outing with the family, or as a pit stop during a day of errands. One of the major benefits noted by customers is the ease of parking. The lot provides ample space, so you can always find a spot without the hassle and stress often associated with urban parking. This accessibility makes Rita's an ideal choice for a spontaneous dessert run, ensuring your experience starts off on a positive note. For those who prefer to enjoy their treats at home, the location also serves as a convenient pickup point for larger orders.
In addition to being a physical destination, Rita's has also embraced modern convenience. The store offers online ordering through platforms like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub. This means you can get your favorite Italian ice or frozen custard delivered right to your doorstep, perfect for those cozy nights in or for when you’re craving a treat but don’t want to leave the house. The availability of delivery services ensures that you can enjoy Rita's delights no matter where you are in the delivery radius. The shop’s hours are consistent throughout the week, typically from noon to 10 PM, offering a wide window for you to stop by and get your fix. These dependable hours and multiple service options highlight the shop's dedication to serving the community in the most convenient way possible.
Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard offers a comprehensive menu of frozen treats and services designed to satisfy every kind of craving. Their offerings are celebrated for their variety, quality, and the ability to customize your order to create a perfect dessert. The core of their menu is built around their Italian ice and frozen custard, which can be enjoyed separately or combined in unique ways. This versatility is what makes Rita's so popular among a diverse clientele. From simple, single-flavor scoops to complex, multi-layered masterpieces, there is a treat for every taste. They also have special promotions and limited-time flavors, which keeps the menu fresh and exciting for loyal patrons.
The shop also excels in providing options for those with dietary considerations, including sugar-free Italian ice flavors. This inclusive approach ensures that more people can partake in the joy of a Rita's treat. Additionally, the shop is a great resource for special events and gatherings. As one satisfied customer mentioned, the staff is very accommodating even when faced with large, last-minute requests. This flexibility and customer-first mindset demonstrate a high level of professionalism and care that sets them apart. Whether you need a small treat or a large-scale order for a party, Rita's is equipped to handle it with a friendly and helpful attitude.
Here are some of the key services offered:
- Serving a daily-changing selection of fresh Italian Ice flavors
- Crafting rich, creamy old-fashioned frozen custard
- Creating their signature Gelati, which layers Italian ice and frozen custard
- Blending custom Blendinis, which mix Italian ice, custard, and toppings
- Offering a variety of shakes, sundaes, and other frozen desserts
- Providing catering options for parties, events, and fundraisers
- Online ordering and delivery through popular food delivery apps
The shop's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction is evident in its array of unique features and highlights. Rita's isn't just about selling desserts; it’s about creating an experience. The menu is built on a foundation of classic favorites and innovative new creations, ensuring there's always something to discover. The freshness of the Italian ice is a major draw, with each batch made daily to ensure the best possible flavor and texture. This dedication to quality control is a significant reason for their loyal customer base. The ability to mix and match flavors and toppings allows for endless personalization, turning a simple dessert run into a creative culinary adventure.
One of the most notable aspects is the staff's dedication to customer service. As one review highlighted, the team is accommodating and goes out of their way to assist with unique requests, such as a large, unexpected order for multiple gallons of ice cream. This level of service fosters a sense of community and makes patrons feel valued. Another standout feature is the clear and concise communication. While one customer noted a layering preference for their Gelati, this instance also points to the importance of communicating your specific needs, and the fact that the staff is attentive to these details when prompted.
Here are some of the key highlights of visiting Rita's:
- Daily-made Italian Ice with a wide and rotating variety of flavors
- Award-winning, old-fashioned frozen custard for a rich and creamy texture
- The famous Gelati, offering the "best of both worlds" in a layered treat
- Sugar-free Italian Ice options for health-conscious patrons
- Convenient online ordering and delivery for enjoying treats at home
- Accommodating staff who can handle large and spontaneous orders
- Easy parking, making visits stress-free and quick
For all inquiries, orders, or to simply get in touch, you can use the following information. The friendly team at Rita's is always ready to assist you.
Address: 1320 Babcock Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15209, USA
Phone: (412) 821-7482
In conclusion, Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard on Babcock Blvd is an essential local spot for anyone in the Pittsburgh area seeking a high-quality frozen treat. Its combination of a diverse menu, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere makes it a perfect destination for all ages. For locals, it’s more than just an ice cream shop; it’s a place for creating memories. Whether you’re grabbing a cone with the kids after a game, meeting up with friends for a refreshing Gelati, or simply indulging in a personal favorite, Rita's offers a reliable and delightful experience. Its easy accessibility and dedicated service ensure that it remains a cherished part of the community, serving up happiness one scoop at a time. The shop's ability to cater to individual tastes and its readiness to accommodate a variety of needs, from small orders to large catering requests, makes it a valuable resource for the neighborhood. When you're in the mood for something sweet, Rita's provides a simple, satisfying solution that has stood the test of time.
Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard Details
From the business
- Small business
Service options
- Delivery
- In-store pickup
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Popular for
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Assistive hearing loop
Dining options
- Seating
- Table service
Atmosphere
- Casual
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Groups
Planning
- Quick visit
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard Photos










Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard Location
Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard
1320 Babcock Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15209, USA
Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard Reviews
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★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1I didn’t give any notice and I randomly showed up to buy 4 gallons of ice cream and they were very accommodating and helped me out very much and we very much appreciate it. Easy parking!
July 17 · Aaron MillerGreat ice cream! We also ordered some lemon Italian ice. Not as flavorful as real Italian "granita", but still pretty good. The one thing that we found disappointing was the order of the 5-layer gelato; we figured the lady serving us would keep the lemon Italian ice apart from the chocolate custard so as to not taste lemon in the chocolate, and she did the opposite. Make sure you make it clear how you want your Italian ice and custard layered before ordering if you want them separated instead of mixed.
June 08 · Vincenzo MercurioI like supporting this local neighborhood Rita's. The teens are always friendly. Prices are reasonable. There is usually enough parking. Has an outside area to sit on the bench and enjoy. I will say that the custard is definitely a satisfying sweet treat BUT...usually made sloppy and unappealing to the eye.
April 21 · Tami LeeSecond time here within 2 weeks and both times I find a hole in the center of the serving. It’s pricey ($5) anyways and the ice cream purchased doesn’t even extend above the rim and then you find a hole in the center!!LikeAnswer
April 23 · Catherine BowserWell suck me silly!!! I didn't like Rita's - I loved it!!! 💯
July 16 · Jonny Worth
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