Ritter's Frozen Custard

For residents of Portage and the greater Kalamazoo area, a trip to Ritter's Frozen Custard is a beloved tradition, especially during the warmer months. Located at 217 Romence Rd, this shop has established itself as a local go-to for a truly decadent dessert experience. Ritter's specializes in frozen custard, a denser and creamier alternative to traditional ice cream, made fresh daily on-site. This commitment to quality and freshness is what sets it apart and keeps customers coming back for more. The shop's atmosphere is typically buzzing with families, friends, and individuals all seeking a delicious escape. While some customer experiences have varied, as is common with any popular eatery, the overall reputation of Ritter's in Portage is that of a family-friendly establishment dedicated to serving high-quality frozen treats. The menu is expansive, offering everything from classic cones to elaborate sundaes and shakes, ensuring there's a perfect option for every palate. The inviting outdoor space and dedicated amenities for children make it a destination that caters to the community's need for a fun and relaxing outing.

The Ritter's Frozen Custard in Portage is conveniently situated, making it an easy and accessible destination for many. Its location on Romence Road, just off Westnedge Avenue, places it in a high-traffic area with other retail and dining establishments nearby. This means it's a simple stop to make after a shopping trip or a casual dinner. The layout of the property is designed with customer convenience in mind. There is a spacious parking lot, which is a major benefit for those visiting during busy evenings or weekends. The building itself is well-marked and easy to find. The walk-up windows for ordering create a classic, nostalgic feel, allowing patrons to enjoy the fresh air while they wait for their order. While the reviews on staff can sometimes be mixed, the physical accessibility of the location remains a consistent positive, making it a stress-free outing for families with young children or anyone with mobility needs. The easy-to-reach location and dedicated parking contribute significantly to its popularity as a local hub for sweet treats.

Ritter's Frozen Custard in Portage offers a wide array of services and menu items that go far beyond a simple scoop. The focus is on providing a full frozen dessert experience with something for everyone. The core of their business is the frozen custard, but the menu expands to include a variety of creative and classic preparations. Here's a look at the services and products offered:

• Freshly Made Frozen Custard: The signature product, made in-house throughout the day to ensure optimal freshness and creaminess. Flavors change daily, with vanilla and chocolate always available.
• Signature Sundaes: A selection of pre-designed sundaes with creative names and delicious combinations, like the Peanut Butter Mountain Sundae and the Turtle Sundae.
• Glaciers: Ritter's version of a "blizzard," which blends frozen custard with a choice of mix-ins and toppings.
• Shakes and Malts: Classic thick shakes and malts made with their famous frozen custard.
• Italian Ice and Gelati: Offering a dairy-free alternative with a variety of Italian ice flavors, which can also be layered with frozen custard to create a Gelati.
• Take-Home Tubs: Pints and quarts of frozen custard available for purchase, so you can enjoy the treat at home.
• Frozen Custard Cakes: Specialty cakes for celebrations, featuring layers of custard and cake.

Several features and highlights make the Portage Ritter's a special spot for locals. The experience extends beyond just the food and is deeply tied to the family-friendly atmosphere and unique amenities. While a recent negative review pointed out concerns with customer service and cleanliness, the overall public perception and other reviews suggest these might be isolated incidents, as many other patrons praise the establishment. One of the most significant highlights is the outdoor space and its family-oriented design. Here are some of the key features that stand out:

• Outdoor Seating: The shop features extensive outdoor seating, allowing customers to relax and enjoy their treats in the open air, which is particularly inviting during the spring and summer.
• Children's Playground: A standout feature mentioned by a customer review is the playground located out back. This makes Ritter's an ideal destination for families with kids, giving children a place to play while parents can supervise and enjoy their custard.
• Seasonal Flavors: The rotating daily flavors of frozen custard keep the menu exciting and fresh, encouraging repeat visits to try something new.
• Dog-Friendly Treats: For pet owners, the "Dog Dish" is a popular item, which includes a scoop of vanilla custard topped with a dog treat, showing the shop's inclusive and community-minded approach.

For those interested in visiting or contacting Ritter's Frozen Custard in Portage, here is the essential information:

Address: 217 Romence Rd, Portage, MI 49024, USA

Phone: (269) 321-8800

In conclusion, Ritter's Frozen Custard is a quintessential local establishment that is perfectly suited for the residents of Portage and the surrounding Michigan communities. The emphasis on high-quality, freshly made frozen custard provides a premium dessert experience that goes beyond what most ice cream shops offer. The family-friendly environment, complete with ample outdoor seating and a dedicated playground, makes it a perfect destination for a fun and casual outing with children. While individual experiences may vary, the general consensus is that Ritter's is a cherished spot where locals can create lasting memories over a scoop of their favorite sweet treat. Its location is convenient, its menu is diverse, and its atmosphere is designed to be a welcoming retreat for anyone looking for a moment of sweet indulgence. For a taste of something a little richer and a lot creamier, Ritter's Frozen Custard remains a top choice in the area, offering a delightful escape for people of all ages.

Ritter's Frozen Custard

217 Romence Rd, Portage, MI 49024, USA