Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard — Restaurant in Castro Valley

This place is simply awesome! I stumbled in here for the first time today and was wonderfully surprised. Having never had an Italian Ice, I asked Lyle, the counter guy, for a recommendation. Without missing a beat he asked me what kind of flavors I preferred, and handed me a sample. It was like nothing I ever tried before, a very fine light and yet somehow creamy, ice treat. I asked Lyle how it would taste with the custard on top and, as if reading my mind, he handed me a generous sample of the watermelon flavor with vanilla custard on top. Mmm, the thick and creamy custard contrasted well with the watery sweet watermelon flavored ice making both taste richer. It was really refreshing and well balanced in sweetness. When I got to the bottom of my cup and the ice slush mixed with the melted custard to make a creamy but light tasting watermelony liquid that I wish was bottled and sold in stores. Lyle was considerate enough to make sure I got some watermelon pieces in my cup as well. These tasted less sweet compared to the flavored ice slush and more like a little watermelon ice cube that were fun to crunch on between bites. If you have not been here, you have to try this rare snack. If you get Lyle behind the counter, come hungry, as the guy is not stingy with delicious samples. Major props to the owner for finding such committed and friendly employees to run the counter. This place rocks! Everyone...

0 if possible for this visit. The cashier had told us that we'd be last after an order she finished because we came 3 mins before 7. There wasn't any mention of why they should be closing up 2 hours earlier than normal and very passive aggressive actions when performing her job. Lots of slamming of the handles and just pushing things towards customers faces as well as not filling the cup enough. I also feel that the party in the store were associated with the cashier and is the reason for wanting to close up early. It's okay though I will find a different Rita's to go to or better yet a different gelato/ custard...

If you haven't experienced frozen custard and Italian ice, you are missing out. The frozen yogurt is not quite ice cream and not frozen yogurt, kinda like the two came together and had a baby. It is the creamiest non sour "frozen yogurt"... Mixed with what they are calling Italian ice, (it's frozen flavored sugar juice slushy) and you have yourself a perfect treat.

Staff was friendly enough and this place is getting super popular even during the winter. when it gets hot and you know Castro Valley will get hot, this place will have lines...