Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard

Rita’s is a delicious treat. The gelati is good: frozen custard layered with Italian ice. They usually have one sugar free Italian ice on menu. Take out only. Parking lot has about 6 spots and there are a few more on street. Don’t forget to tip!

Too hot to go out but feeling like the taste of one of my favorite summer cool treats, I decided to order it off DoorDash. Truly disappointed when I pulled my bag off the door knob and saw that the bottom of the bag was wet. Opened my bag to find my Blendinis tipped over and open, plus no napkins or spoons in the bag as requested. I decided to call to see if the manager was available (rather than simply posting a bad review & before reaching out to DoorDash to complain). After just a couple rings, my call was professionally answered by Angela, the manager. I explained the situation, and that I just wanted for management to be aware even though I was very disappointed. Angela immediately apologized, confirmed my order and had my order personally redelivered. My bag of Blendinis was given to me in hand, properly packaged, including napkins and spoons! I called with no expectation, other than to eat what was left in the cup and make management aware of the mistake. She resolved my issue like a ROCKSTAR! True leadership, and a beacon small business in the city. The new freshly packaged Blendinis were absolutely DELICIOUS! And she added a complementary Oreo ice cream sandwich. Now that’s exceptional customer service.

Pretty quiet on a Sunday. The weather was perfect for a custard 🤪to go please.

Employees taking up all the parking spaces directly in the front even though there are only about 6 spaces. Then they refuse to serve you if you don’t park a certain way even though they are in most of the spaces. Also some staff members have a white crust around their mouth and it just makes you feel like a dirty person is touching your food.

Good custard. Some parking available. Walk up counter. Staff were friendly and helpful.

I've been doing to this Rita's locations for many years. This location was one of the first to open in the DC area. It's a great stop on a hot day. Rita's also caters events.

I'm so happy Rita's is open, I love their gelatti. I tried Wendy's new Dreamsicle Frosty, and it was horrible. The taste was off, and I threw it away, then drove straight to Rita's.

Summer time classic that’s rich & sweet. Perfect for hot days in the DMV! The Gelati is a balanced blend of custard and Italian ice but if you’re undecided on ice flavors, I’d recommend the ice flight which allows you to pick 4 ice flavors and then add a serving of custard on the top (see picture). My personal favorite ice is the black cherry 👌🏼

Quick lines and services, plenty of flavors and toppings. Reasonable price. They do have outdoor seating/benches.

This place can get popping' with its limited parking but it's close to my house and they usually have what you're looking for. Street parking can be available if they have no space in their lot and they have a small seating section next to the line where you order. There are three windows you can order from but only the first two have the bar code scanners. I love this place and will definitely be coming more during summer time!

During our recent Eastcoasttrek our Foodie friend Renie was looking for a legit shaved ice location and remembered Rita's. Normally we stay away from chain/franchise operations, at least when it comes to food/beverages because one of the great things about traveling is experiencing one of a kind places. We had just stuffed ourselves at Oohh's & Aahh's and were in Northeast DC and it was a bit humid but he remembered Rita's. We went to the one on Rhode Island and was not disappointed. The good news about franchise eateries is consistency. We were promptly served and Renie insisted we try the Gelati. It was the perfect treat. Great presentation with quality products. The custard was amazing - tasty and creamy. There is plenty of free parking or street parking if you prefer.

I'm so disappointed, I waited for this place to open for the season for months and it was incredibly disappointing. I took my dad for his first time and he wasn't impressed either. I got a large vanilla ice, which had a really weird taste I can only describe as dirty water. My dad got a large blue raspberry and it literally tasted like nothing it was blue but had slim to no flavor which was shocking because I've had it before and loved it. We took home a large cherry for my grandfather and he took one bite said something was off about it and threw it away. Idk if it's because they just opened for the season or maybe the staff wasn't trained on how to make the ice, maybe they came from the factory wrong but there's is definitely something wrong with the ice at this location. I'm heartbroken it definitely wasn't worth the wait. I'm doubtful I'll try again, if I do it will definitely be a different location because there was no manager to speak to about my issues.

I had proof of an order that fell out of my bag. It was a large. The manager Angela argued with me and gave me a small when I came back.

The Space: This is a no frills establishment. There is parking (about 10 spots), but I see plenty of people park in the neighborhood and walk up. There isn't any indoor seating, just a picnic table to the side. You will have to stand outside to order, sort of like a carnival/fair set up. The Service: Depending on the season and time of day you go, there could be a very long line that wraps around the building. I typically go around noon during the summer and there will be around 5 people in line. The service is alright, nothing spectacular but it keeps the line moving. I would check google to see how busy it is before making your way over. The Food: Again, Ritas keeps it simple but they have enough flavor options to make a million combinations (like strawberry, swedish fish, blood orange, green apple, etc). I personally like to get the mango gelati with vanilla custard. The small size is really filling because custard is heavier than ice cream. They just released a new flavor called "tropical paradICE", which is a mix of guava, mango, pineapple, and passion fruit. They even have dog treats in custard for your dogs, which might start to compete with the pupiccino from Starbucks!

Pretty busy location but staff is really friendly and quick. Parking is scarce. They will recommend you some pretty good options too if you ask. They are also one of the only Rita's that I have been to that have 4 custard flavors everyday. (Usually, strawberry, vanilla, chocolate, and butter pecan) I love a gelati on a hot day. They typically keep their online flavors accurate too and you can decide before you get there!

I love ritas, so I love this place =). I also love that they have a parking lot. On a nice sunny day, this is a great place to stop at.

This review is strictly on customer service. If you do not spend your money based on the warmth and positive attitude of the employee's, than this will not interest you. Honestly, I would give this location NO STARS if I could. Yes, they have some of the most delicious mouth watering custard you will ever taste but it all taste like SHHHHHH after the bad taste that was left in my mouth. Yesterday evening, I called to inquire what flavor of ice they had. Of course a general question, that I know is annoying. But hey, people ask me annoying questions all the time at work, I don't get to dismiss them. The woman on the phone (did not get her name) proceeds to ask me if I had access to review the flavors online. Already annoyed by her response, I kindly informed her no that my smart phone just isn't that smart. Thinking a corny joke would break the ice for two minutes she goes back and forth with me on how she has a long list of flavors and a long line. Immediately, I was thrown off. So you had enough time to answer, ask me a question and tell me no? I proceed to state that in that time she could have read off half of the flavors by now. WE ALL KNOW Rita's never has more than 13 dangon flavors on a weekday. (Yes, I go that much to know) As an avid customer, I automatically respond to her inconsideration with the following inquiry. 'Do you not want our business' and she condescendingly stated 'I have business'. Those words were like a slap in the face. I WOULD NEVERRRRRRR EVERRRR EVERRRRR spend my time, money, patience or energy at this location. Even if I'm in the area, I would drive my happy tail to Laurel! Who is open all year round, now thats business! First off, as a franchise you should pride yourself on being different. Especially when Rita's is not cheap for a little cup of Ice. Do yourself a favor, drive past this location and hit up Baskin Robbins. They have A LONGER list of flavors and I spent the same amount for a Large Rita's Ice for a pint. What more can a kid ask for!

We stopped here after a long hot day at the monuments. The service was great, staff was very friendly and the Italian ice was amazing. Parking was not a problem when we arrived.

The guy that worked there was very enthusiastic and friendly. The customer service is was really good. But, the strawberry starburst didn't taste the same as the College Park location. It taste like they added some cotton candy and other misc flavors in it. I was kinda disappointed because I thought all of the flavors would taste the same regardless of the location.

This was the longest wait I have ever had at a Rita's. There were no less than 5 ppl working and it still took over 20 mins to get my order. The employees could be seen doing other things besides filling orders. Worst experience.

I would love to stop here more often, but the parking lot is always packed. Even when there is no one buying or eating their Rita's treat there. Apparently, there is a car wash behind Rita's. I don't know if people drop their cars off and come back later in the day or what, but it's a shame all of the free parking there isn't for customers of Rita's.

Just purchased two extra large lemon ices at Rita's on Rhode Island Avenue NE. Ice is delish. I was surprised to find tiny bits of something in there but determined that they were tiny pieces of lemon peel --- Nice. But then I felt a larger piece of something in my mouth that was not chewable. I took it out of my mouth to look and found that it was a piece of plastic about 3/4 inch long. UGGG. Even so, the Ice is soooo good and after paying $6.00, I didn't stop eating it. Warning, just be careful before you swallow.

This is a popular location for a reason. Excellent product, lots of choices. It's just a window with a small and busy lot-- I park on the residential street behind it to avoid annoyance.

Love Rita's in the summer. Good variety of flavors and different items. I enjoy the twist custard but until the "egg shortage" is over all Rita's are now serving soft serve ice cream and not custard. While the ice cream isn't horrible I miss the custard.

I love Rita's Ice. This location is a 15 min drive from my house - like Dee says, they have parking and the location is a little obscure. My boss has been telling me about Rita's for months now, and we finally went last week. I ordered the Banana and Coconut with Vanilla custard, and man was it delicious. Get this - they use all natural ingredients - no fake stuff. My Banana ice actually had banana in it. Real chunks of banana. The custard is creamy and delicious. Ever since then I've been dreaming about returning. They're opening one in Anacostia soon - close to where I work. I can't wait. I might eat it every day (and nothing else, because that custard has to have mad calories).

Crack Cocaine dealers. If you don't believe me, try it. They give samples. (likeanyrealstreethustlerslanginrocks).... I'm strung out. Don't waste your time on a plain custard, or plain ice...go right for the gelatti...the rest is just foreplay. I warned you.

Gelati = the best of both worlds (frozen custard, Italian ice, frozen custard). Pick your choice of custard: vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry. Various kinds of ice: mango, cotton candy, piña colada, and pink lemonade to name a few. I got a vanilla custard with strawberry lemonade and it was fab! The textures provide awesome goodness. :0)

Why do businesses have a phone if noone is going to bother to answer. I have a valid concern as to whether the location on Rhode Island is Kosher certified and desired to disambiguate prior to stopping in but alas NO ANSWER. I will update accordingly once my inquiry is answered. Unfortunately I once partook of some obviously non kosher icee at a Rita's that I regret to this very day. I do not know what was in it but it made me very ill so now I take the time to ask.

Stopped at this location for a treat for my family. There were 2 lines with about 10 people in each. It took an excruciatingly long time for each person to be served. Seriously, these people were getting soft serve ice cream without toppings. This should be a 3 minute transaction. We left after 30 minutes and the line had moved up 3 PEOPLE. Yep, 3 people in 30 minutes. Sorry Rita's, it just ain't that good!!

It's hot outside and I need a break: I gotta have a mango gelati with chocolate and vanilla twist! Thanks for being in the NE neighborhood. It's just what I needed! But hey, where did the Ritachinos go? That was another of my favorites.

Unbelievable!!! There is a shortage on eggs and they are selling soft serve...but kept the same prices!!! I am appalled and will not return until its right. How dare you keep premium prices for a product that no longer exist!

Very poor customer service! The manager waited on my husband I and our 3 children. My husband ordered a Blendini. However, upon tasting it he said something was missing as he loves the oreo Blendini and would know. So he proceeded to ask if the water ice was added to the ice cream and the manage stated "No you didn't ask for it". He proceeded to tell her that he has never asked for it before and has always had it. He than asked her if she could add the ice. She told him No and that he should have asked for it in the beginning. You never let a customer walk away unhappy. Our family normally patronize this location several times a week and I purchase Italian ice for my daughter's school field day from here each year but YOU HAVE LOST MY BUSINESS over $4.

Customer service is alright, not fantastic. However, their tasty Italian ice makes up for it. That never lets me down.

i don't understand the draw. scratch that. i understand the draw. long lines whenever you pass one. bright colours and signs offereing sweet treats. and it's only open seasonally. who wouldn't be curious? but i don't understand the following. and rita's seems to have a cult-like follwoing. but, it's just not that good. really, it was a major let down b/w the intrigue and all the hype. while waiting (and waiting, and waiting) in line i got excited about all the flavors offered. there are SO MANY. and custard AND ice? yay! or.......no. the "custard" is no custard at all. it tastes like that cheap ice cream you get off the icre cream truck or @ the ghetto corner store - you know, the kind that comes in a really flimsy ridged plastic cup with with a peel-off paper top and a piece of wood that looks like a mini tongue-depressor for a spoon. yep, that's what the "custard" tastes like. blech. and the ice is just a glorified slurpee. i suggest saving yourself the time and disappointment. just go to 7-11 and dump some cheap ice cream into your slurpee.

This is a great find! One of the few Rita's in DC. Although its located on rhode island avenue, a bit deep in northeast DC, it's pleasant when you get there. Great service in a poorly served neighborhood. They have their own parking lot though so you can feel safe parking, ordering, maybe even sitting on the benches to enjoy your ice or custard for a bit. Then leave before it gets dark. :)

This was the first one I saw in DC... in this lil' obscure triangle park on my way from College Park, and it was there i revisted the first time i had one in Philly. This Rita's has parking too! Then I stopped in, had a blendini, and fell in love all over again. This place is always good for a refreshing summer treat that is less than 5 dollars. This location rocks because of the parking aspect, I just wish they'd continue to make improvements tot he area so that you may actually enjoy walking around and enjoying the treat that is a Rita's Water Ice.

Let me first say that I have very little will control when it comes to ice cream. Quite possibly my favorite food/desert/whatever else you want to insert EVER. The variety of flavors are amazing and I absolutely love that there are different ones each day! I catch myself ordering the same 3-4 things at restaurants but this place makes me try new flavors. I've tried probably 8-10 different ones (can't remember names, sorry!) and never been less than 100% satisfied. Even with fall here and winter around the corner I could go for Rita's anytime!!

You cannot beat an ice cold Rita's Ice on a hot summer night. The staff is super friendly and I love that they know everyone. So many flavors so little time. I like that they have bits of fruit in the ice and everything taste real. You never get the gorss artificial aftertaste with Rita's. The custard is so rich and creamy, again it tastes like real stuff. I had orange ice with orange cream custard, just like a cream cicle. I just love this neighborhood Rita's and look forward to when they open, it's a sign that spring is finally here.

This location ABSOLUTELY NEVER has the flavors I like, like "mint chocolate chip" or "red velvet". Just a bunch of standard stuff. Time after time, I hear excuses, excuses like, "we had it last week", yeah, yeah whatever. I usually just end up walking away pissed. The issue is that there is no customer service approach to keeping me as a customer and helping me try different new flavors. Since I am standing right there with money to spend, I think a smart approach would be, "Oh, we apologize for not having your favorite flavor today - how about trying ____(insert flavor here)___ with this coupon for 10% off, and we will take your number and send you out a text when we have your favorite flavor again". That would at least keep me from walking away pissed off not buying anything at all. Not a chance. It will be a cold day in hell before I go back. Who needs to waste the calories anyway.

I dropped in here today on my way to Carl's Subbs. Rita's has a good location at the corner of Rhode Island Ave and South Dakota Ave. I like that it has a parking lot, but it's a bit hard to navigate when it's crowded. The service was slower than I'm used to at a Rita's, but the product was good. The staff are very friendly, though, which is a huge plus for me.

We love this place. The service is always with a smile and the line moves quickly. The ice cream and ice treats are reasonably priced. They have parking so you don't have to worry about finding a spot on the street.. and also benches outside of the restaurant so I can enjoy my ice cream after purchase. 2 thumbs up.

Rita's has something for everyone (great place to go if you have group with ice cream lovers & those who are lactose-intolerant) and all of the delectable icy treats are bursting with flavor. Prior to experiencing Rita's I reserved my dessert calories for ice cream, but Rita's ice flavor are so incredible it's like being on vacation in the Caribbean. Mango, coconut, banana, sour green apple, banana, strawberry, any of these or a combo topped with vanilla custard is just heavenly in the summer months (and I'm a hardcore chocoholic). Flavors offered on any given day are different, so best to visit www or call if you're picky.

Good gelati, which is a mix of custard and ice. I love the mango. The other flavors, like watermelon, taste pretty artificial. The custard tastes too good to be true- I wonder what's in it...

Great place to reward the kids after a long week. I reward myself with the Gelati.