Happiness on Ice

Part of the community for 24 years, Rita’s of Pequannock is still as popular now as it was when it opened. Why? Their Italian ices are made fresh daily with real fruit and favorite sweets—gummy bear, Swedish Fish or cotton candy Italian ice, anyone? Rita’s also offers frozen custard, a mix of Italian ice and custard and other frozen treats.

Mike and Karen Simineri, owners since the beginning, left the corporate Wall Street world behind and never looked back. They take great pride in what they do, boast of having the best employees around, and are honored to serve the people in their community. “There is nothing better than working my window,” says Karen Simineri. “The people here are so friendly. I especially love serving the children.” The Simineris’s business is treats. Their mission? Spreading happiness.

95 Flavors and Counting

Rita’s opens the second week of February every year. To let the community know, students in Pequannock and Lincoln Park receive a coupon for a free Italian ice. On the first day of spring, Rita’s gives free Italian ices to all comers. This year, they dished up more than 2,000! Overall, mango is the most popular flavor, but if that’s not your fancy, don’t worry—the shop rotates 95 flavors of Italian ice along with frozen custard and other treats.

Rita’s spreads happiness throughout the community by supporting the children’s programs at the Pequannock Library, Scout projects, school awards and tricky trays. On opening day, Rita’s hosts a drive for the Pequannock Animal Shelter, giving a 10% discount card good for the entire season to anyone who donates. Rita’s caters local corporate events, birthdays, graduations, retirement parties and weddings. Can’t get there? Use one of the popular delivery services to enjoy Rita’s wherever you are. Stay current on flavors and more by following Rita’s of Pequannock on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.