Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard Introduce
For many residents of Pennsylvania, the name Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard is synonymous with delicious, refreshing treats that mark the arrival of warmer weather. In the heart of Lebanon County, the Cleona location stands as a testament to this cherished tradition. This article serves as a comprehensive guide for local Pennsylvanians looking to explore everything this popular dessert shop has to offer. From its signature Italian Ice to rich and creamy frozen custard, Rita's has been a go-to spot for families, friends, and anyone craving a sweet escape. We’ll dive into what makes this particular location a standout, covering its convenient features, the wide variety of menu items, and why it's a perfect fit for the local community.
The tradition of enjoying a Rita's treat is more than just a simple indulgence; it's a seasonal rite of passage. As the doors open for the spring and summer season, locals eagerly anticipate the return of their favorite flavors. The Cleona shop is no exception, serving up happiness to its patrons year after year. The atmosphere is always vibrant and welcoming, with the promise of a cool treat on a hot day. This location is particularly well-known for its fresh, daily-made Italian Ice and its rich, old-fashioned frozen custard, a combination that has won over hearts and taste buds across the state.
A visit to Rita's is about more than just the food; it's about the experience. The Cleona shop is designed to be a gathering place where people can create lasting memories. Whether you're stopping by after a baseball game, treating the kids to a reward, or just looking for a simple pick-me-up, Rita's provides the perfect backdrop. The staff is known for their friendly service, ensuring every customer feels welcomed and leaves with a smile. It's this commitment to community and quality that solidifies Rita's place as a local institution, and the Cleona branch upholds this reputation with every scoop and swirl.
The Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard in Cleona is conveniently situated at 640 E Penn Ave, making it easily accessible for residents of Cleona and the surrounding communities in Lebanon County. The location is strategically placed along a main thoroughfare, East Penn Avenue, which provides a direct and simple route for drivers. For those traveling from nearby towns, the shop is just a short drive from major roads, making it a quick and easy stop. Ample parking is typically available, ensuring that you can find a spot without a hassle, even during peak hours on a warm evening. This accessibility is a key factor in its popularity, as it allows people to swing by on their way home, after running errands, or as a planned destination for a fun outing.
In an effort to provide even greater convenience for its patrons, the Cleona Rita's features a brand new drive-thru. This addition is a game-changer for those who are short on time or prefer to stay in their vehicle. The drive-thru allows you to get your favorite treat quickly and efficiently, whether you're grabbing a single cup of Italian Ice or an order for the whole family. It streamlines the process and is especially beneficial for parents with children in the car or anyone looking for a no-fuss experience. This enhanced accessibility makes it easier than ever to enjoy the full Rita's menu without ever leaving the comfort of your car. The drive-thru is a testament to the store's commitment to customer service and its dedication to meeting the needs of a busy community.
While the drive-thru offers a great option for speed and convenience, the location also encourages walk-up service, allowing you to enjoy the fresh air and vibrant atmosphere. The shop's layout is designed to be user-friendly, with clear signage and a straightforward ordering process. The presence of both walk-up windows and a drive-thru ensures that the Cleona location can accommodate a high volume of customers without long waits, which is a major advantage during the busy summer months. This dual-service model showcases the store’s dedication to providing a seamless experience for every type of customer, whether they are in a rush or taking their time to enjoy the moment.
The Cleona Rita's offers a wide range of services to cater to every craving and occasion.
- Seasonal Offerings: The shop is open seasonally, typically from early spring to late fall, which is a highly anticipated event in the community.
- Catering and Events: Rita's provides catering services for events, parties, and gatherings, allowing you to bring the joy of Italian Ice and Frozen Custard to your special occasions.
- Mobile App: Customers can download the Rita's app to earn points and rewards for their purchases, which can be redeemed for free treats.
- Delivery and Takeout: For added convenience, the store partners with various third-party delivery services, allowing you to have your favorite treats delivered right to your door.
- Gift Cards: Gift cards are available for purchase, making them the perfect gift for any occasion.
This Rita's location is packed with features and highlights that make it a local gem.
- Brand New Drive-Thru: A standout feature of this location is its recently added drive-thru, providing a quick and easy way to get your treats.
- Daily Fresh Italian Ice: The shop is known for making its signature Italian Ice fresh on-site every single day, ensuring the highest quality and flavor.
- Diverse Menu: Beyond the classic Italian Ice and Frozen Custard, the menu includes popular items like Gelati (a layered combination of ice and custard), Blendinis, Concrete, and shakes.
- Variety of Flavors: Rita's offers a rotating menu of Italian Ice flavors, with new and seasonal options appearing throughout the year, so there's always something new to try.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: With its bright, clean, and welcoming environment, the shop is a great place for families to spend quality time together.
- Accessibility: The location's easy access from East Penn Avenue and the convenient parking options make it a stress-free visit for all.
To get in touch with Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard in Cleona, or to find the shop, you can use the following information.
Address: 640 E Penn Ave, Cleona, PA 17042, USA
Phone: (717) 306-4217
The store's friendly staff are always ready to assist you with any questions about the menu, hours of operation, or catering options. The best way to get the most up-to-date information, including the daily rotating flavors, is to follow them on social media or check their official website. With this information, you can easily plan your next visit to this beloved local spot. The combination of a convenient location and accessible contact information ensures that the community can always stay connected with their favorite dessert destination.
For residents of Lebanon County, Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard in Cleona is more than just a place to get dessert; it's a vital part of the community fabric. It’s a place where childhood memories are made and where adults can recapture a moment of simple joy. The seasonal opening is a cherished local tradition, signaling the start of a new, fun-filled season. Its convenient location with easy access and a brand-new drive-thru makes it a hassle-free option for families on the go. The vast menu of refreshing Italian Ices, creamy frozen custards, and unique creations like Gelati ensures there's something to delight every member of the family.
The commitment to quality, with Italian Ice made fresh daily on-site, speaks to the dedication to providing an excellent product. The shop’s ability to serve a wide range of tastes, from classic cherry ice to rich chocolate custard, makes it a reliable choice for any craving. This local Rita's is a true community hub, perfect for celebrating victories, big and small, or just unwinding after a long day. It’s an ideal spot for locals who value quality, convenience, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a first-time visitor, the Cleona Rita's is perfectly positioned to be your go-to destination for a taste of happiness. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to consistently deliver a high-quality product in an environment that feels like home.
In conclusion, the Cleona Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard is a perfect destination for any local Pennsylvanian seeking a delicious treat. Its strategic location, variety of services, and commitment to fresh, high-quality products make it a local favorite. The addition of the drive-thru and its well-established reputation for friendly service further solidifies its position as a staple in the community. For a taste of tradition and a moment of pure enjoyment, this Rita's location is a must-visit.
Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard Details
From the business
- Small business
Service options
- Delivery
- Drive-through
- In-store pickup
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Great dessert
Popular for
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Assistive hearing loop
Dining options
- Table service
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Quiet
- Trending
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
640 E Penn Ave, Cleona, PA 17042, USA
Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard Reviews
flavorsdrive throughmilkshakecherrymangovanillaswedish fishglovespineapplesundae
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1This is a large?? Not sure what happened since last year when the cups were well filled. We got smalls in large cup for >$5 each.
April 10 · K Snyderterrible experience this is the 4th time that i have went and asked for swedish first and they put cherry. i would’ve understood if they said they didn’t have it but nope just put cherry in and didn’t say anything. will no longer be going to this rita’s.
July 07 · shelby boyerHorrible experience. We were waiting for 40 minutes and the workers were only attending the people of the drive tru with a line of people leaving because of the long wait. Even after we rang the bell nothing was said or done and we had to leave. If they were understaffed or unable to serve people that should have been communicated in order to not wasted peoples time. Time is valuable.
May 06 · Darius AldridgeThe 2 girls forgot to make our order! I waited quite a bit, then reminded them we didn't get our icecream (Gelati etc) we were the only customers
July 08 · John HertzogWas actually going to give them a good review until we asked to add one Italian ice to our order and they decided to close the window and complain about it. If you don't like your job, quit. No one forced you into the difficult ice cream industry.
July 02 · Nyasia Perez
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