Rocky’s Pizza in Birmingham Reopens After 8 Years: Nostalgic Pizzeria Returns This Labor Day

Rocky’s Pizza Reopens After 8 Years of Waiting

After facing several delays, Rocky’s Pizza is finally ready to reopen. This famous 1980s pizzeria in Birmingham, known for its boxing-themed decor and slogan "Round after round, best pizza in town," is making a comeback.

Last year, the owners signed a lease to reopen Rocky’s Pizza in the former Little Italy space at 1924 11th Ave. South. Now, the much-anticipated reopening is set for Labor Day, Monday, September 2.

Rocky’s Pizza was originally founded in 1986 by Dennis Dunlap on Green Springs Highway. The restaurant was named after the famous boxer Rocky Marciano, with pizzas named after other well-known boxers. Over the years, Rocky’s Pizza moved several times before finally closing in 2016. Sadly, Dennis Dunlap passed away in 2017 after battling cancer.

During the last years of the restaurant, Dennis' son, Joshua Dunlap, managed the kitchen, while Dennis handled the front of the house. Now, Joshua has partnered with René Mercado Angeles, who has over 16 years of experience at Gianmarco’s Restaurant, to reopen the pizzeria. Joshua's sister, Cynthia, has also joined as a co-owner.

Joshua expressed his excitement about the reopening, saying, “We are thrilled to bring Rocky’s Pizza back to Birmingham. It’s been a long journey, but we’re ready to reconnect with our loyal customers and see the business thrive again.”

Cynthia, who joined the team later, shared how she used to help out at the restaurant when it was first open. She would assist with food prep, run errands, and even fill in as a delivery driver when needed. Cynthia is happy to be part of the family business once more.

Mercado Angeles asked for patience during the first week of reopening. “We want our first week to be a soft opening,” he said. “By Monday, September 9, we’ll be fully up and running.”

The reopening was initially planned for last summer and then this spring, but various challenges caused delays. Mercado Angeles explained that they wanted to avoid taking on debt, which slowed things down, but they are now confident and ready to reopen.

As Rocky’s Pizza prepares to welcome customers again, Cynthia reflects on the fond memories she has of working with her father and brother at the original restaurant. She is excited about the future of Rocky’s Pizza.

Hours of Operation:

• Sunday: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Monday-Wednesday: 11 a.m. to midnight
• Thursday-Saturday: 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.

Mercado Angeles noted, “We want to offer a late-night dining option for the college crowd, where they can relax and enjoy a full Italian dinner after most other restaurants have closed.”