Ritter’s Frozen Custard, a beloved sweet treat destination in Port Orange, has closed its doors after 25 years of serving the community. The shop, located at the corner of Clyde Morris Boulevard and Herbert Street, will be replaced by a new business, Frozen Gold Ice Cream.
The property, at 4629 Clyde Morris Blvd., was sold for $1.24 million to Frank Saljanin, the owner of Frozen Gold Ice Cream in New Smyrna Beach, according to Volusia Court Clerk of Court records.
The closure of Ritter’s took many by surprise, as franchise owners John and Renee Dame had not anticipated this shift. The couple, who are deeply connected to Ritter’s corporate operations, including John’s involvement on the franchise advisory board and Renee’s role as a corporate trainer, expressed confidence in finding a new location in the area between Ormond Beach and Port Orange.
“We are actively looking at options and hope to move somewhere soon,” said Renee Dame. “After 25 years, we just need a break. We haven’t had time off, so we’re taking a moment to clear our heads and explore our next steps.”
The Dames also mentioned that Howard Gross, the previous property owner, recently retired and sold the land and building, paving the way for Saljanin’s acquisition.
Saljanin, who did not comment on the purchase, is believed to have been drawn to the nostalgic value of the Ritter’s building. However, the Dames will continue to operate their mobile food truck, serving their freshly made frozen custard at a new location once it’s established.
Reflecting on how Ritter’s made its way to Port Orange, John Dame shared, “We visited friends in Greenwood, Indiana, and tried a Ritter’s there. We were impressed and decided to open one here.”
The Dames expressed gratitude for the community’s support over the years. “We couldn’t have done it without the community and our employees. It’s been a great 25 years, and we truly appreciate all of them,” said John Dame.
As the business transitions, 15 employees are now seeking new opportunities. The closure has prompted an outpouring of appreciation from the local community, with hundreds of responses on Ritter’s Facebook page, many reminiscing about the impact the shop had on their lives.
Former Port Orange Councilwoman Kat O’Connor Atwood shared, “Ritter’s Frozen Custard is an icon in our city. For more than 25 years, it has been a gathering spot for locals. It will be missed.”
Port Orange resident James Howarth also expressed his nostalgia, saying, “I remember when you opened. It was a big deal then, and now I take my kids there. Thank you for the memories and delicious treats.”
The Dames are optimistic about their next chapter and remain hopeful about finding a new location soon.
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