Jun 13, 2025 - Food and Drink

Patience pays at Rockaway Pizzeria

Chrissy Suttles

We landed one of the city's hardest-to-get pizzas, pies that have Pittsburghers waiting an hour or more to try.

The intrigue: Since relocating from White Oak to Regent Square in May, Rockaway Pizzeria has drawn daily lines and regularly sells out by late afternoon, with crowds eager to sample owner Josh Sickels' recipes.

Barstool's Dave Portnoy gave Rockaway a glowing review last year, vaulting the already-popular pizzeria into regional fame.

Dig in: Sickles crafts his pizzas on a foundation of long-fermented dough with an airy bite and a crisp, charred edge.

The menu pulls inspiration from New York, New Haven and Philadelphia-style pizza, offering a modern take that highlights peak-season ingredients.

What we tried: We sampled slices of the pan-baked grandma-style pizza topped with mozzarella, tomato sauce, garlic, basil, and a sesame-seed crust and the sauceless white pizza with garlic oil, fresh mozzarella, marinated Italian onions, and parsley.

The vibe: The shop has both dine-in seating for about 50 guests and takeout service.

Yes, but: Patrons should prepare for long lines and early sellouts for now. Call ahead, if possible, before making dinner plans.

Where: Rockaway Pizzeria, 1137 S. Braddock Ave., Regent Square

Cost: $20+ per pizza

Six-word review: Fresh, elevated flavor that rewards patience

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Patience pays at Rockaway Pizzeria

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