From Philly Roots to Sarasota Sunshine: The Legacy and Community Mission of Rita’s on Clark Road

The story of Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard is a classic American tale of a small-town idea that grew into a national phenomenon. From its humble beginnings on a front porch in Philadelphia to its vibrant presence today on Clark Road in Sarasota, the brand has remained dedicated to its core mission: “Ice, Custard, Happiness.”

The Founding: A Philadelphia Firefighter’s Dream (1984)

The company was founded in May 1984 by Bob Tumolo, a former Philadelphia firefighter. Looking for a way to supplement his income during the sweltering East Coast summers, Tumolo began selling “water ice” (a regional Philadelphia term for Italian ice) from a small walk-up window on his front porch in Bensalem, Pennsylvania.

Tumolo didn’t just buy a pre-made mix; he used a secret family recipe passed down from his mother, ensuring the ice was made fresh daily with real fruit. He named the business after his wife, Rita, and the first location became an overnight local success. By 1989, Tumolo began franchising the concept, eventually leading to over 600 locations nationwide by 2026.

The Heart of Sarasota: Rita’s of Clark Road

In December 2023, the Rita’s brand made a significant splash in the Sarasota community by opening at 2881 Clark Road. Taking over the location previously occupied by the long-standing SweetBerries, the Clark Road Rita’s quickly established itself not just as a dessert destination, but as a community hub dedicated to supporting local families and youth organizations.

While many franchises focus solely on sales, the Clark Road location— Locally owned and operated by the Moore family —has distinguished itself through its aggressive and heartfelt commitment to the Sarasota community.

Commitment to Local Youth and Families

The Clark Road store has become a staple partner for several of Sarasota’s most impactful organizations, focusing on the development, education, and recreation of local children:

• Sarasota Children’s Museum: Rita’s has been a key supporter of the museum’s growth, participating in events like the “First Rotation Celebration” at Payne Park, providing treats and financial support to ensure local children have a space for hands-on learning.
• Sarasota Little League: You can frequently find the Rita’s “Treat Team” at the ball fields. The Clark Road store sponsors teams and hosts “Scoop Nights,” where a percentage of sales goes back to supporting equipment and facility costs for the league.
• Sarasota Youth Sailing Association: Recognizing Sarasota’s unique coastal identity, Rita’s supports the Youth Sailing Association, helping provide scholarships and resources for young sailors to learn teamwork and respect for the marine environment.
• Transform Martial Arts: Partnering with local businesses like Transform Martial Arts, Rita’s rewards young students for their discipline and progress, often providing “Achievement Awards” that kids can redeem for a free treat after a hard-earned belt promotion.
• Sarasota County School District: The Clark Road location is a dedicated partner to local schools. From sponsoring “Spirit Nights” for nearby elementary schools to providing incentives for the “Reading is Reward” programs, the store has integrated itself into the daily lives of Sarasota students and teachers.

A Menu Built on Tradition

Despite its growth and local partnerships, the Clark Road store maintains the high standards set by Bob Tumolo 40 years ago. Every batch of Italian Ice is made fresh on-site and discarded if not sold within 36 hours to ensure peak flavor.

The Clark Road location continues to be more than just a place for a cold snack; it is a testament to how a national brand can feel like a neighborhood original when the owners prioritize the families they serve.