Northport Pizzeria Closes, New Eatery to Open

Former Tide Baseball Star David Robertson Retires After 17 MLB Seasons

Feb. 1, 2026 at 9:55am

Chicago Pizza Express in Northport, Alabama has closed its doors, but a new pizzeria is set to take its place. Meanwhile, Tuscaloosa native and former Crimson Tide baseball standout David Robertson has announced his retirement from Major League Baseball after a 17-year career.

Why it matters

The closure of Chicago Pizza Express marks the end of an era for the Northport community, but the arrival of a new pizzeria offers an opportunity for a fresh start. Robertson's retirement also signifies the end of an accomplished baseball career for a local sports hero.

The details

Chicago Pizza Express, located off Highway 43 in Northport, has closed permanently. However, a new pizzeria is expected to open in the former Chicago Pizza Express space. In other news, Tuscaloosa native and former Crimson Tide baseball star David Robertson has announced his retirement from Major League Baseball after 17 seasons. Robertson, who played for the New York Yankees, Chicago Cubs, and other teams, was a key part of the Tide's baseball program before embarking on his professional career.

  • Chicago Pizza Express closed its doors on Saturday.
  • A new pizzeria is set to open in the former Chicago Pizza Express space.
  • David Robertson announced his retirement from MLB on February 1, 2026.

The players

Chicago Pizza Express

A pizzeria that operated in Northport, Alabama off Highway 43 before closing its doors.

David Robertson

A Tuscaloosa native and former Crimson Tide baseball standout who played 17 seasons in Major League Baseball for the New York Yankees, Chicago Cubs, and other teams.

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What’s next

A new pizzeria is expected to open in the former Chicago Pizza Express space in Northport, offering the community a fresh dining option.

The takeaway

The closure of Chicago Pizza Express in Northport marks the end of an era, but the community can look forward to a new pizzeria taking its place. Meanwhile, Tuscaloosa native David Robertson's retirement from Major League Baseball after 17 successful seasons is a bittersweet moment for local sports fans.