Pizza Goes Gourmet at Zoe's in Mashpee Commons

By: Chris Setterlund, May 21, 2012

CHRIS SETTERLUND - Zoe's Pizza moved to Bates Road in Mashpee Commons in 2004.

Greek pizza. A Mediterranean atmosphere. Palm trees. These are just a few of the unique qualities that make Zoe’s Pizza in Mashpee Commons a popular destination.

Originally associated with the Pizza By Evan franchise, owner Tom Poole changed the name to Zoe’s, which is Greek for “life.”

Originally located where the GAP Store now stands, Poole moved the shop to Bates Road near Stop & Shop eight years ago.           

What makes Zoe’s stand out?  Poole says it comes down to two things: “the prices are reasonable, and the quality is good.” 

Sure, any owner will say that about their establishment, but Poole backs it up. 

“It’s got to be good,” he says with a smile, “because I live on it.”

After sampling the gourmet Mexican pizza, it’s easy to understand why. 

So what exactly is a “gourmet pizza”? Poole says it is “doing the thinking for you” when it comes to creative pizza ideas.  Most people order cheese, pepperoni, or mushroom, but would actually like something more unique.  Zoe’s BBQ Chicken, Hawaiian, and Greek pizzas are big sellers, as is the Mexican pizza. 

When I got the rundown of what was on it, I knew that was something I needed to try.

The first thing I need to mention is that instead of traditional sauce, the pizza is covered with homemade chili.  That sold me right there. The subtle spice of the chili tickles your tongue in contrast to the cool, crisp lettuce and tomatoes.  Black olives and banana peppers are sprinkled over the top and a layer of mozzarella finishes this masterpiece of flavor. 

Each slice was so packed with toppings that I needed a knife and fork to keep the spillage to a minimum.

The delicious food and inviting atmosphere inside virtually guarantees that any first timer will become a regular at Zoe’s.  Although Poole says the décor is Mediterranean, I couldn't help but feel whisked away to the American Southwest after stepping foot inside. 

As for the live palm trees, Poole says that he got the idea for them because so many regular customers spend time in Florida. Since he has never had the chance to go, he decided to bring a bit of Florida to Cape Cod.

A little hard to find at first, Zoe’s Pizza will be impossible to forget. Poole and his crew put so much hard work and attention to detail into each and every one of their creations, from gourmet pizzas to subs to French fries and chicken fingers.