Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard

For residents of Glen Burnie, Maryland, and the surrounding communities, the name Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard is synonymous with a refreshing, high-quality frozen treat. Located at 7381 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd A, this specific Rita's franchise is a destination for those seeking the perfect blend of Italian ice and frozen custard. The brand's history dates back to 1984 when a former Philadelphia firefighter, Bob Tumolo, opened a small business on his front porch, using his mother's famous recipe to create what he called "water ice." He named the shop after his wife, Rita. Since then, the company has grown into a major international chain, but its commitment to making fresh Italian ice daily on-site remains the core of its appeal. The Glen Burnie location carries on this tradition, offering a wide array of flavors and treats that are a beloved part of the local dessert landscape. This article is designed as a comprehensive guide for locals, providing a detailed overview of what makes this Rita's location a suitable and popular choice for a sweet indulgence. We will explore its convenient location, the variety of services and treats it offers, the special features that make it a standout, and key information you'll need for a great visit. Our goal is to provide a factual and friendly resource that helps you learn more about this cherished local establishment.

The success of Rita's is built on the foundation of two core products: their signature Italian ice and their rich, creamy frozen custard. The Italian ice is made fresh daily with real fruit, a fact that customers consistently rave about. Reviews highlight the quality and freshness, with one customer stating, "The best Italian ice ever. Everything here is all freshly made." The variety of flavors is a major draw, with options ranging from classic fruit flavors to more inventive choices like "Kool-Aid Italian ice," which one customer called their "new favorite." The frozen custard, which is a key ingredient in many of their signature treats, provides a perfect creamy counterpoint to the fruit-forward ice. This combination is most famously showcased in their signature "Gelati," a layered treat that alternates Italian ice and frozen custard. The shop is also known for its positive customer service. A customer mentioned that they are "always served with a smile," creating a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. While one review did mention a negative experience with a stranger outside the shop, they were quick to clarify that "ritas was awesome," reinforcing the quality of the product and the positive in-store experience. This combination of a high-quality product, a wide variety of choices, and great customer service is what makes the Glen Burnie Rita's a reliable and enjoyable spot for the community, a place where people can go for a "terrific pick me up."

The location and accessibility of the Rita's in Glen Burnie are significant factors for local patrons. Situated at 7381 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd A, the shop is positioned on a major road, making it a straightforward destination for those traveling by car. A customer noted that the shop is "right by the light rail," which is a considerable advantage for people who use public transportation. This proximity to a light rail station makes the shop easily accessible from various parts of the surrounding area, reducing the need for a car. For drivers, the shop is part of a commercial strip, which likely offers dedicated parking, making it a convenient stop. Being located on Baltimore Annapolis Boulevard places the shop in a well-known area, making it an easy landmark to find. This accessibility, combined with the presence of other local businesses and transit options, makes the Rita's in Glen Burnie a highly practical and convenient choice for the entire community. Whether you're on your way home from work, running errands, or simply looking for a quick treat, the shop's location ensures that it is a viable option for a wide range of patrons.

Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard offers a diverse and creative menu that goes beyond just a simple scoop. Their services are centered around combining their two signature products to create a variety of delicious treats. Here is a breakdown of the services and products you can find at this location:

• Italian Ice: The foundation of the menu is their Italian ice, which is made fresh daily with real fruit and comes in an extensive array of rotating flavors. This is available in a variety of sizes for cups.
• Frozen Custard: The shop offers rich and creamy frozen custard, which is a perfect stand-alone treat or a complement to their Italian ice.
• Gelati: This is Rita's signature treat, featuring alternating layers of their famous Italian ice and frozen custard. It is a popular option that combines the best of both worlds.
• Blends: The shop offers treats like "Blendini" and "Concrete," which blend frozen custard with Italian ice or other toppings, respectively. This allows for a customized and unique dessert experience.
• Milkshakes and Cream Ice: For a richer, creamier treat, customers can choose from their milkshakes or their "Cream Ice," which is a smoother, cream-based version of their Italian ice.
• Take-Home Options: Customers can take home their favorite flavors in pre-packed pints and quarts, perfect for enjoying at home with family.

The features and highlights of this specific Rita's location are what make it a beloved and reliable spot for the local community. These elements contribute to a positive and memorable experience for its patrons. Here are some of the key highlights of the establishment:

• Fresh-Made Products: A major highlight is the commitment to making Italian ice fresh daily on-site. This ensures a high-quality product with a vibrant, authentic flavor.
• Extensive Flavor Variety: The shop offers a constantly rotating menu of Italian ice flavors, including unique and seasonal options, which gives customers a reason to visit frequently and discover something new.
• Signature Gelati: The Gelati, which combines the ice and custard in a perfectly layered treat, is a major highlight and a unique product that Rita's is known for.
• Positive Customer Service: Customer reviews praise the friendly staff and the consistently positive experience, noting that they are "always served with a smile." This contributes to a welcoming atmosphere.
• Accessibility: The location's proximity to a light rail station and its position on a major road make it a highly accessible and convenient stop for people using various modes of transportation.

To plan your visit or get in touch with Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard in Glen Burnie, here is the essential contact information. The physical address is 7381 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd A, Glen Burnie, MD 21061, USA. This is the central location where you can find their delicious treats. The primary phone number for the shop is (410) 590-3900. This number can be used for general inquiries, such as checking on current hours of operation or flavor availability. A mobile phone number, +1 410-590-3900, is also provided as an alternative contact method. It's always a good idea to check their official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date information on seasonal flavors and hours, as these can change. The availability of these contact methods makes it easy for the local community to connect with the shop and get the information they need. This transparency and accessibility are a key part of the shop's local appeal, making it a friendly and approachable business for all of Glen Burnie's residents, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience every time they stop by for a treat.

In conclusion, Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard at 7381 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd A is an excellent choice for locals in Glen Burnie for several compelling reasons. The shop’s commitment to making fresh, high-quality Italian ice daily ensures a consistently delicious and authentic product. The wide variety of flavors, including seasonal and limited-time options, means there is always something new and exciting to try, giving customers a reason to come back again and again. The signature Gelati, which perfectly combines Italian ice and frozen custard, offers a unique treat that is a beloved part of the Rita's brand. The positive and welcoming customer service, as highlighted in local reviews, creates an inviting atmosphere that makes every visit a pleasant one. Furthermore, the shop’s convenient location near a light rail station and on a major road makes it highly accessible for the entire community. For the people of Glen Burnie, Rita's is more than just a place to get dessert; it's a reliable and cherished spot for a refreshing treat and a dose of happiness. Its blend of classic appeal, fresh ingredients, and a community-focused mindset makes it a perfect fit for any local seeking a delicious and satisfying frozen treat.

Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard

7381 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd A, Glen Burnie, MD 21061, USA