Italian Ice Shop To Take Over Space That Once Housed Beloved MoCo Restaurant

ROCKVILLE, MD — A new tenant has signed on to take over the former home of a beloved Chinese restaurant that served residents for decades.

One of two Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard shops planned for Montgomery County will open at the Rollins Center, just off Rockville Pike.

The custard shop will be located at 155 Rollins Ave., where the now-closed China Taste operated for decades until its owners announced they would retire and close up shop over the summer.

Related: Chinese Restaurant In Rockville Closes After Serving Locals For Decades

Operating from Rockville for more than three decades, China Taste had established a strong customer base over the years, even weathering COVID-era closures after temporarily opting for pick-up orders only.

A second Rita's shop is planned for the upcounty region, at 26323 Ridge Road in Damascus. The brand is opening less than 500 feet from Jimmie Cone, a staple ice creamery for area residents.

No opening dates have been released for either location.

With the two planned openings, Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard's expansion in the county brings the brand to six shops. The 155 Rollins Ave. site will serve as its second location in Rockville.

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