Downtown Nexton just keeps getting better. Make it your go-to for chewy, yeasty bliss from Wakey Bakey Bagels. Fruity Italian ices from Rita’s. (Yes, ice cream in January — it’s sunny and 75°!) Or how about you start the new year with feel-good facials at Clean Your Dirty Face, spa days at Revive Health Studio and top-notch nail care at INails. Brand new apartments and lofts above the ground-floor retail are now available, and the Atelier Downtown Nexton office campus will open early first quarter 2025.

What has everyone in Nexton been buzzing about besides the new Publix? Well- Rita’s of course!!!!

Rita’s Italian Ice & Custard Brings Sweet Delights to Downtown Nexton

As Downtown Nexton continues to grow into a lively hub, it’s quickly becoming a go-to destination for everything from fresh bagels at Wakey Bakey to rejuvenating spa treatments at Revive Health Studio. But the first business to kickstart the excitement is Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard, offering refreshing, sweet treats that have already made it a local favorite.

A Personal Journey to Sweet Success

For Kelly, the proud owner of Rita’s in Downtown Nexton, opening the store was more than just a business venture — it was a meaningful journey rooted in family and community. Originally from the South, Kelly and her family first encountered Rita’s while living in Baltimore. The quality of the desserts and the welcoming atmosphere left a lasting impact.

“When we moved back to the Lowcountry to be near family, we realized there wasn’t anything like Rita’s in the area,” Kelly explains. “It’s a fun, happy product, and we wanted to bring that joy to our new home.”

Creating Connections Through Sweet Treats

For Kelly, Rita’s is more than just a place to grab a dessert — it’s a way to bond with the community. “I love meeting new people, connecting with my neighbors, and creating a friendly space,” she says. “It’s the perfect setting to serve something sweet and bring smiles to faces.”

The name of their company, Happy Thoughts, was inspired by a saying Kelly’s late father often used: “We’ll keep a happy thought.” When she discovered Rita’s tagline, “Ice, Custard, Happiness,” it felt like a sign to her.

“We wanted to create a place where people can come in and leave with a smile,” Kelly shares. “Rita’s offers that sweet experience that everyone can enjoy.”

A Treat Like No Other

If you haven’t tried Italian ice and frozen custard, you’re in for a real treat. Rita’s Italian ice is made fresh every day, and the custard is a creamy, richer version of soft serve. Their signature offering, the gelati, combines layers of custard and Italian ice for a deliciously unique dessert.

“Many people think Italian ice is just like a snow cone, but it’s actually a whole different experience,” Kelly explains. “Pair it with custard, and it’s a total game-changer!”

Why Downtown Nexton?

When it came time to choose a location, Downtown Nexton was the clear winner for Kelly and her family.

“Nexton felt like the perfect fit,” Kelly says. “The area is growing, it’s close to schools, and the community is so vibrant — people walk and ride their golf carts everywhere. It’s exactly the kind of place we wanted to be.”

Stop by Rita’s Today

Whether you’re craving fruity Italian ice, creamy frozen custard, or the delicious combo of both in a gelati, Rita’s has something for everyone. Head over to Downtown Nexton and see why it’s quickly becoming the happiest spot in town!