We can't imagine a more appropriate setting for the Rita's story to begin than the sweltering hot summer of 1984. It was then that Bob Tumolo, a former Philadelphia firefighter, started selling Italian Ice from a small porch window in Bensalem, PA. Bob and his mother, Elizabeth, created their own Italian Ice recipe, which they made fresh each day and quickly perfected the flavors and consistency of the frozen treat, adding chunks of fresh fruit to some of the flavors. With the modest goal of earning a little extra income, he named the business after his wife, RITA!
Today, Rita's continues to grow, expand, and spread happiness everywhere it goes. Still made fresh every day with real fruit. Still refreshing. Still fun. Still delicious. Just like it was in the early days when Bob Tumolo and his mother opened the very first Rita's in 1984.
Rita's is proud to be a locally owned small business, and an ultimate treat destination for families. Whether you enjoy Rita's famous Italian Ice, award-winning Frozen Custard, our #1 treat Gelati, or another signature treat, we're committed to providing a dose of happiness with every visit.
Real fruit. Real fresh. No place like Rita's!
