Archeologists Unearth a 2000 Year-Old Fast-Food Joint in Pompeii

Fast-food joints are all around us and have been sprawling across the globe since the 20th century, but who would’ve thought that we would find one that’s 2000 years old? 

​An ancient fast-food and drink counter was unearthed by archeologists in the streets of ancient Pompeii, in the archeological park’s Regio V site. The site had once catered various culinary treats to its Roman customers, including pork, fish, snails, and beef. Aside from these, traces of duck bone fragments as well as crushed fava beans were also found at the site. 

The counter is adorned with vibrant frescos and deep, round jar holders. Experts consider it as the first of 80 to be discovered in what is believed to be a good condition considering its age.

According to Massimo Osanna, director general at the Archeological Park of Pompeii, "As well as bearing witness to daily life in Pompeii, the possibilities to analyze afforded by this thermopolium are exceptional because for the first time we have excavated a site in its entirety".

The “thermopolium”, Latin for “hot-drink counter” is set to open for tourists on August 12. 

Image: Luigi Spina | Parco Archeologico di Pompei via AP

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