Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard

For residents of Pennsylvania, especially those in the greater Philadelphia area, the name Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard holds a special, nostalgic place. The brand is a local legend, a sign of summer and a beloved part of life in the region. The story of Rita’s began in 1984, when a former Philly firefighter started selling his own Italian ice from a small stand in Bensalem, Pennsylvania. Named after his wife, the business quickly grew in popularity, thanks to its commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients and a signature, smooth texture that differentiates it from a typical snow cone.

The Glenside location at 520 N Easton Rd continues this rich tradition, serving as a go-to spot for locals seeking a refreshing treat. This shop is famous for its two main products: a wide variety of Italian ice flavors and a rich, creamy frozen custard. The Italian ice, often called "water ice" by locals, is made fresh daily using real fruit, resulting in a vibrant, full-flavored dessert that is both sweet and incredibly refreshing. The frozen custard, on the other hand, is a decadent and smooth dessert, providing a luxurious alternative to traditional ice cream. When these two products are combined, they create Rita's most famous item, the Gelati, a perfect marriage of refreshing ice and creamy custard.

Customer reviews highlight several key aspects of the Glenside location. One review notes the custard's "nostalgic" and "good" taste, a testament to the brand's consistent quality and role in many people's summer memories. Another review provides a detailed breakdown of the menu, helping new customers understand the difference between Italian ice, Gelati, Misto, and other creations. This review also points out the shop's quick and friendly service, even when lines are "nil," which speaks to the staff's efficiency and positive attitude. The review notes the "very refreshing" quality of the cherry Gelati on a "blazing hot" day, confirming that the product delivers on its promise to cool customers down.

While a review did point out the lack of covered seating or a shady spot to stand, noting that customers often eat in their cars, this is a common characteristic of many classic walk-up ice cream shops. It’s a feature that, for some, adds to the quintessential summer experience—a quick stop for a treat before heading back on the road. The detailed review also mentioned the unique temperature of the custard, which is a key feature of Rita's product—it's designed to be a bit warmer than traditional hard ice cream, giving it a distinct, smooth texture on the palate. For anyone in the Glenside or wider Cheltenham Township area, Rita's offers a reliable and delicious way to beat the heat and enjoy a true taste of Pennsylvania summer.

The Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard in Glenside is conveniently located at 520 N Easton Rd, Glenside, PA 19038, USA. This address places it directly on a main thoroughfare, making it highly visible and easily accessible for residents of Glenside and surrounding communities such as Abington, Jenkintown, and Willow Grove. The location features a "really big parking lot," as noted in a review, which is a major advantage for customers arriving by car, ensuring that finding a spot is rarely a problem even during peak hours.

The shop’s location on N Easton Rd also makes it a straightforward destination for those traveling through the area. While it's a small shop without extensive seating, its accessibility and dedicated parking make it perfect for a quick, grab-and-go treat. Whether you're coming from work, picking up kids from a sports practice, or just running errands, the Glenside Rita's is a convenient and easy stop for a refreshing break.

Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard offers a variety of services to satisfy every craving and occasion.

• In-Store Ordering and Takeout: The main service is the traditional walk-up counter experience. Customers can choose from the extensive menu and enjoy their treat on the spot or take it with them.
• Catering: For parties and events, Rita's provides catering services, which can range from large Party Packs of Italian ice to a full-service setup with a mobile cart. This is a popular option for local weddings, corporate functions, and backyard barbecues, bringing the beloved Rita's experience to any gathering.
• Online Ordering and Delivery: To accommodate modern lifestyles, the Glenside Rita's partners with third-party delivery services. This allows customers to order their favorite Italian ice, custard, or Gelati from the comfort of their homes and have it delivered directly to their door.
• Gift Cards: Rita's gift cards are available for purchase and make a perfect present for friends and family who love the brand's frozen treats.

Several key features set Rita's apart and make it a highlight for the local community.

• Signature Gelati: This is arguably the most famous item on the menu. The Gelati is a unique layered treat that combines the refreshing Italian ice with the creamy frozen custard, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
• Made Fresh Daily Italian Ice: A cornerstone of the Rita's brand is the commitment to making their Italian ice fresh daily at each location. Using real fruit, this process ensures a high-quality, flavorful, and consistently delicious product.
• Extensive and Varied Menu: Beyond the classic Italian ice and custard, the menu includes other creations like Misto® Shakes (a blended mix of Italian ice and custard) and Blendinis® (a Misto with toppings), ensuring there's a perfect treat for every taste. The detailed menu breakdown in a customer review shows the range of options available.
• Friendly and Quick Service: As noted in customer reviews, the service is friendly and efficient. This ensures a positive experience, even during busy periods.
• Community and Nostalgia: For many Pennsylvanians, Rita's is a nostalgic part of their childhood summers. The Glenside location continues to foster this community connection and sense of tradition.

For Glenside residents and visitors, here is the essential contact information for the Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard location:

Address: 520 N Easton Rd, Glenside, PA 19038, USA

Phone: (215) 690-4329

This information can be used to call and inquire about current flavors, store hours, or catering options for an event.

The Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard in Glenside is a perfect fit for the local community because it is more than just a dessert shop; it's a reliable source of summer tradition and happiness. Its history in the region and its consistent delivery of high-quality, fresh products make it a cherished institution. The location's accessibility and large parking lot, as highlighted by a customer, make it a convenient destination for a quick stop. While it may not have extensive seating, this simplicity is part of its charm—a place for a simple, delicious treat on a hot day.

The wide variety of treats and the friendly, quick service ensure that every customer has a positive experience. The nostalgic value of Rita’s custard and the refreshing quality of the Italian ice make it a go-to spot for people of all ages. For Glenside and surrounding communities, Rita's offers a taste of local heritage and a perfect way to cool down, solidifying its place as a valued part of the community fabric.

Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard

520 N Easton Rd, Glenside, PA 19038, USA