Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard

When the desire for a cool, refreshing treat strikes in Maryland, especially in the vibrant community of Columbia, many locals turn their thoughts to **Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard**. This well-known establishment, situated at 8640 Guilford Rd, Center Suite B-10, has become a familiar name for its signature blend of sweet Italian ice and creamy frozen custard. Rita's offers a distinctive alternative to traditional ice cream, providing a range of unique frozen delights that cater to a variety of tastes.

Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard is part of a widely recognized chain, originating from a simple concept: "Ice + Custard = Happiness." Their core products, the intensely flavored Italian Ice and the rich, old-fashioned frozen custard, are designed to create a delightful experience. They are particularly famous for their "Gelati," which layers Italian ice with frozen custard, offering a harmonious blend of textures and temperatures. While individual experiences and product consistency can vary, the brand's commitment to offering a unique frozen treat experience has earned it a place in the hearts of many dessert enthusiasts.

The Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard location in Columbia can be found at **8640 Guilford Rd, Center Suite B-10, Columbia, MD 21046, USA**. This address places it within the Kings Contrivance Village Center, a local hub that typically offers convenient access and parking for shoppers and visitors. Being located within a shopping center makes it an easy stop for those running errands, grabbing a meal, or simply looking for a quick dessert.

Columbia's well-planned road network ensures that the shop is accessible from various neighborhoods within the city and surrounding areas of Howard County. Its position on Guilford Road, a significant local artery, contributes to its ease of reach. For Maryland residents seeking a refreshing treat, the Kings Contrivance Rita's offers a straightforward and accessible destination, integrated into the fabric of local community commerce. Current operating hours are typically 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM EST, Monday through Sunday.

• **Italian Ice:** Rita's signature product, a smooth, fruit-flavored frozen treat made fresh daily. They offer a rotating selection of over 95 flavors, ensuring a wide variety throughout the season. Popular flavors include Mango and Cherry.

• **Old-Fashioned Frozen Custard:** Rich, creamy, and made with high-quality ingredients, their frozen custard is available in classic vanilla and chocolate, among other rotating flavors.

• **Gelati:** A signature treat that layers Italian Ice and frozen custard, providing a blend of textures and flavors. This is often a top choice for customers looking for the "best of both worlds."

• **Blended Treats (Concretes, Blendinis, Shakes):** The menu includes various blended options such as Concretes (custard blended with toppings), Blendinis (custard, Italian Ice, and toppings blended), and Specialty Milkshakes (custard blended with various flavors and toppings).

• **Customizable Options:** Many items allow for customization, such as choosing specific Italian Ice flavors, custard types, and adding various toppings for sundaes and concretes.

• **Freezer Fillers:** Quarts of Italian Ice and pints of frozen custard are available for purchase, allowing customers to enjoy Rita's treats at home.

• **Unique Product Offerings:** Unlike traditional ice cream shops, Rita's specializes in Italian Ice and frozen custard, along with their popular Gelati, offering a distinct dessert experience that sets them apart.

• **Extensive Flavor Rotation:** With a rotating selection of numerous Italian Ice flavors, customers can always find something new to try or enjoy seasonal favorites, contributing to repeat visits.

• **Combination Treats:** The ability to combine Italian Ice and frozen custard in various forms, especially the Gelati, is a major highlight that many customers appreciate for its unique texture and flavor profile.

• **Local Community Presence:** As a franchise often owned and operated by individuals from the local community, Rita's aims to provide friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere, striving to be a neighborhood favorite.

• **Commitment to Freshness:** The famous Italian Ice is made fresh daily at each location, ensuring a consistent and high-quality product.

For more information about Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard in Columbia, or to inquire about their daily flavors and offerings, you can use the following contact details:

**Address:** 8640 Guilford Rd, Center Suite B-10, Columbia, MD 21046, USA

**Phone:** (443) 864-5509 or +1 443-864-5509

While the shop strives for customer satisfaction, some past customer feedback has noted issues with order accuracy or product consistency for certain specialty items. It is always recommended to double-check your order upon receipt and communicate any specific requests clearly to the staff.

For Maryland locals in Columbia, Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard offers a distinctive and often refreshing option for frozen treats. While specific customer experiences can sometimes vary, the establishment's core appeal lies in its unique offerings, particularly the vast array of Italian Ice flavors and the beloved Gelati that perfectly marries Italian Ice with creamy frozen custard. Its convenient location within the Kings Contrivance Village Center makes it an accessible stop for families, individuals, and groups looking for a quick and satisfying dessert.

The concept of "Ice + Custard = Happiness" resonates with many, making it a go-to spot for a delightful pick-me-up or a celebration. While some patrons have expressed concerns regarding pricing or the precise execution of certain complex orders like specialty milkshakes, the overall sentiment points to a consistent desire for Rita's unique flavors. For those in Maryland seeking something beyond traditional ice cream, with a wide variety of refreshing options and the iconic Gelati, Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard remains a suitable and popular choice in the local dessert landscape.

Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard

8640 Guilford Rd, Center Suite B-10, Columbia, MD 21046, USA