Thermopolium

A thermopolium was an ancient Roman mixed-use establishment serving hot food and drinks, similar to a modern fast-food counter. These small shops typically featured a stone counter with embedded vessels called dolia, used to store and serve prepared meals like stews and soups. They were common in busy city areas, providing accessible nourishment for people on the go, including workers and travelers. Archaeological finds of thermopolia offer valuable insights into daily Roman life, commerce, and diet, highlighting how public eating habits were integrated into urban social spaces.