Founded by Bob Tumolo all the way back in1984 (and named for Tumolo’s wife Rita), Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard has grown explosively, reaching more than 580 locations in its 40 years in business. Now, the brand appears to have its sights set on St. Petersburg as it builds out its footprint in the Greater Tampa Bay area.
Submitted plan review documents show a new Rita’s planned for 2141 66th St N, in the Crossroads Shopping Center.
“At Rita’s, ‘Ice Custard Happiness’ is our way of life,” says the Rita’s website’s About Us page. “We’re passionate about delivering super-friendly guest service and providing our guests with a cool, smooth, delightfully happy treat experience. If you’re looking to build memories, celebrate special moments, mark traditions, or simply need a pick-me-up, our fresh, tasty treats are guaranteed to do the trick.”
Rita’s rotating Italian ice menu boasts more than 80 different flavors, and the ices are always made with fresh fruit, daily, in-house. Available as concretes with a variety of toppings, Rita’s frozen custards also feature more flavors than the usual chocolate and vanilla options: Butter Pecan, Chocolate Chip Mint, Orange Cream, and Salted Caramel are a few favorites.
Franchisee Frank Brown was not immediately available on Friday to discuss plans for the opening of a Ritas Italian Ice in the Crossroads Shopping Center.
You can keep up with Rita’s Italian Ice news by following @ritasice on Instagram.
