Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard

For generations, Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard has been a beloved destination for sweet treats across the region. The location in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania, is a true local staple, offering a refreshing escape and a taste of summer all year round. This neighborhood spot is more than just an ice cream shop; it's a place where families and friends gather to create lasting memories over a cup of delicious, freshly made treats. With its vibrant atmosphere and a menu full of delightful options, Rita's has firmly established itself as a go-to spot for anyone with a craving for something sweet and cool. It’s a classic choice for anyone looking for a simple, joyful treat, and its long-standing presence in the community is a testament to its popularity.

The story of Rita's began in 1984 when Bob Tumolo, a former firefighter, started serving his Italian ice from a small porch window in Bensalem, PA. His family recipe, made with real fruit, quickly became a local sensation. This commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients is a tradition that continues to this day at every location, including the one in Upper Darby. From the moment you step up to the counter, you're greeted with the promise of a treat made with care, a promise that has made Rita's an institution. The brand’s journey from a humble start to a regional favorite is a story of quality and community, and the Upper Darby store embodies this heritage perfectly, serving up a slice of local history with every spoonful.

Located at 1550 Garrett Road, Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard is easily accessible for residents of Upper Darby and the surrounding Delaware County area. The shop is situated in a convenient spot that makes it an easy stop whether you're running errands or just out for a leisurely drive. For those using public transportation, the shop is a short distance from several SEPTA bus routes, and the proximity to major roads like Garrett Road and Lansdowne Avenue means it's a quick trip by car. Parking is available, making it simple for customers to pull in, grab a treat, and be on their way. The strategic location makes it a popular destination for students after school, families on the weekends, and anyone needing a quick, tasty pick-me-up.

The accessibility of the location is a significant plus for the local community. It's nestled in a busy but friendly part of the township, making it feel like a natural part of the neighborhood. The ability to get there without a fuss, whether you're walking from a nearby street, driving over from another part of Upper Darby, or hopping off a bus, ensures that it remains a central and beloved fixture. This ease of access contributes to the shop’s role as a community hub, a place where people can gather without having to travel far, fostering a sense of local pride and belonging.

Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard offers a diverse menu of services designed to satisfy every sweet craving. The menu goes far beyond simple ice cream, providing a range of refreshing and unique dessert options.

• Italian Ice: The signature offering, made fresh daily with real fruit. With a rotating selection of over 95 different flavors, there's always something new to try. Customers can call ahead to find out what flavors are available on any given day.
• Frozen Custard: This creamy, dense, and rich dessert is a perfect companion to Italian Ice. It can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a more complex treat.
• Gelati: A signature layered treat that combines the famous Italian ice with creamy frozen custard. This is a popular choice for those who want the best of both worlds.
• Misto Shake: A delicious and blended treat that mixes Italian ice and frozen custard to create a thick, sippable drink.
• Blendini: A customizable creation that blends frozen custard with your choice of toppings.
• Frozen Drinks: A selection of refreshing frozen beverages that are perfect for a hot day.
• Cakes and Party Packs: Rita's also offers larger-sized treats perfect for special occasions, including custom cakes and party packs of their Italian ice.

This wide array of options ensures that everyone who visits can find something they love, from the purist who enjoys a classic cup of cherry Italian ice to the adventurous customer who wants to create their own unique Blendini.

Rita's in Upper Darby stands out for several reasons, making it a favorite for many in the community.

• Freshly Made Daily: All of the Italian ice is made fresh on-site every day. This commitment to freshness ensures a high-quality, flavorful product that customers can taste in every spoonful.
• Rotating Flavors: The constant rotation of over 95 different Italian ice flavors keeps the menu exciting. This feature encourages repeat visits as customers are always curious to see what new and classic flavors are available.
• Diverse Menu: The combination of Italian ice and frozen custard allows for a unique variety of treats like Gelati and Blendinis that aren't found at traditional ice cream parlors.
• Community-Owned: Each Rita's shop is individually owned and operated by a member of the local community. This means that when you visit, you're supporting a local business and a neighbor.
• Loyalty App: Customers can download the Rita's app to earn points toward free treats, adding an extra incentive for repeat visits.

These features, from the fresh ingredients to the community focus, highlight why Rita's is more than just a place to get dessert; it's a place that values quality, variety, and its connection to the local residents.

For all inquiries, from checking today's flavors to placing a special order, you can contact the Rita's in Upper Darby using the following information.

Address: 1550 Garrett Rd, Upper Darby Township, PA 19082, USA

Phone: (610) 284-7482

Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard is a perfect spot for locals in Upper Darby and the broader Delaware County region. Its convenient location, diverse menu, and commitment to fresh, quality products make it an ideal destination for a family outing, a casual date, or a solo treat. The fact that the Italian ice is made fresh daily ensures a superior product, while the ever-changing flavor list keeps things interesting for regular patrons. The option to combine Italian ice with frozen custard in so many different ways means that everyone, from kids to adults, can find their perfect dessert. Furthermore, by being a locally-owned franchise, it connects directly with the community it serves.

For anyone living in or visiting Upper Darby, Rita's is more than a dessert shop—it's a tradition. The friendly atmosphere and the promise of a delicious, handcrafted treat make it a place that brings people together and brightens their day. Whether you're a long-time resident or new to the area, a visit to Rita's is a quintessential local experience, offering a small taste of joy that defines a classic Pennsylvania summer. It’s a place that captures the simple pleasures of life, making it a suitable and cherished destination for everyone in the neighborhood.

Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard

1550 Garrett Rd, Upper Darby Township, PA 19082, USA