What Was a Thermopolium?

A thermopolium was a fast-food restaurant that sold hot and cold foods. It served mulled spiced wine from earthenware jars set in the counter, as seen in our thermopolium. The hot foods included various types of legumes, fowl, roast meats, seafood, vegetables, mushrooms, and egg dishes. The cold foods included bread, fruits, and the condiment garum.

Where Were Thermopolia Located?

A thermopolium could be located in a working-class neighborhood, in which case it would typically specialize in a few items, such as wine and lentils, meats, or cheeses. Its décor and offerings would be sparse, practical, and cheap. A thermopolium could also thrive in an elite neighborhood. Such an establishment would have elegant, frescoed walls and serve more elaborate foods. Roman soldiers found comfort in the thermopolia that regularly grew up outside their forts.