The national gelato chain Rita’s Italian Ice will soon be opening in Kissimmee, according to a recent filing with the State of Florida. The new store will be located at 847 Cypress Parkway, within The Promenade shopping center.
Franchisee Rajendrabhai Panchal tells What Now Orlando that they are currently in the permitting phase and are anticipating opening sometime in early 2023.
When asked why he chose to begin franchising with Rita’s, Mr. Panchal says, “We recently sold our liquor business after 15 years and I decided to make a change in my life and try something new.”
And why did he decide on the Kissimmee location?
“There is a Publix nearby, along with a lot of other stores. It’s a busy location!”
Founded in 1984 by Philadelphia firefighter Bob Tumulo, Rita has since become a prominent italian ice chain throughout the United States, offerings products such as gelato, ice cream, milkshakes, sundaes, and Mr. Panchal’s favorite, the gelati, a combination of ice water and frozen custard.
Until the new Kissimmee location opens its doors, gelato fans may visit the two other Orlando locations at 5931 International Dr and 11567 Regency Village D,.
