Rockaway Pizzeria in Regent Square is pressing pause, at least for now, while owner Josh Sickels steps away to deal with a serious spinal injury. The neighborhood favorite is temporarily closed as it undergoes treatment and focuses on recovery, and regulars are being told there is no firm timeline yet for when the ovens will fire back up.
Owner's update
Sickels took to social media to explain what is going on, saying, “I have herniated discs in my spine at multiple levels,” as reported by Pittsburgh Magazine. The outlet notes that he has been pushing through weeks of significant pain along with arm weakness and numbness. On his doctor’s advice, he is shutting down the Regent Square shop while he focuses on his health and has said he will share updates once a reopening date comes into focus.
From White Oak to Regent Square
Rockaway’s current chapter in Regent Square started with a move from White Oak to Braddock Avenue last year. The new spot caught on fast, with local reporting describing long lines and frequent sellouts as word spread. The relocation and early buzz were covered by the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, while Hoodline offered a grand reopening preview. That attention helped cement Rockaway on many locals’ short lists for New York-style slices.
Where to go while Rockaway is closed
While Rockaway is dark, local coverage has pointed hungry fans toward a few stand-ins: Muns Pizza, A Slice of New York Squared, Spirit Pizzeria, and Cork & Crust have all been highlighted as solid nearby options. Pittsburgh Magazine rounded up several of these suggestions and also noted other recent pizza openings around the city. For the latest word on Sickels’ recovery and any reopening plans, customers can keep an eye on the shop’s website at Rockaway Pizzeria.
