Shiretown Pizza celebrating 30 years in business

By Mike Lange
Staff Writer

  DOVER-FOXCROFT — Shiretown Pizza and Sandwich Shop hits a milestone next month as the popular eatery on Main Street in Dover-Foxcroft observes its 30th anniversary.
  Pam Ames, who has worked for the restaurant from the beginning and owned the business for seven years, said that even though she’s still putting in long hours, she’s enjoying every moment of it. “I’ve actually slowed down in recent years,” she said with a grin. “I even got my motorcycle license this year.”

Observer photo/Mike Lange

    HAVE A SLICE — Pam Ames shows off one of her specials at Shiretown Pizza and Sandwich Shop in Dover-Foxcroft.

  The business was originally known as the Food and Fun Center when it was across the street from the Center Theater. In 1989, it moved to Foxbrook Variety; and three years later, to its present location on Main Street.
  Ames bought the business from Dick and Maxine Barston seven years ago, and recently bought the Barston’s home. “I bought it from Maxine after Dick passed away,” she said.
  One thing that’s stayed constant at Shiretown Pizza and Sandwich Shop, however, has been Ames’ commitment to making as many entrees homemade as possible. “We specialize in our pizzas, lasagna, meatballs and marinated chicken,” she said. “We even make our own croutons.” Ames’ granddaughter, Jemyni True, helps make the lasagna and meatballs every Sunday.
   Shiretown Pizza and Sandwich Shop is one of the few – maybe the only – takeout restaurants that deliver in the Dover-Foxcroft area. On the day of the interview, the staff was preparing 27 sandwiches and 16 pizzas for a delivery to True Textiles in Guilford. “This is also a great service for senior citizens who don’t drive anymore. We’ve even gone out on Branns Mill Pond and delivered to the ice fishermen,” Ames said.
    Looking for choices? The Shiretown Pizza and Sandwich Shop menu is five pages long and they also have four sizes of pizza instead of the traditional two or three.
    Ames, grandmother of 13, is also proud of her family’s involvement in the business. Her daughter, Crystal Harmon; cousin Lori Dumont and niece Tara Nelson are all part of the Shiretown Pizza and Sandwich Shop staff.
    They’re open Sunday through Thursday from 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 10:30a.m.-8 p.m.
    Call 564-3513 for takeout or more information.