Roman Bars

  • Three main types of Roman Bars and Restaurants provided Food, but with no Accommodation.
  • Roman Hotels provided the Accommodation.

Thermopolium

  • A snack bar consisting of a booth serving hot food and drink in the street.

Taberna

  • These were shops, but could also be a one room Roman Bar (Tavern) opening onto the street, mainly serving alcohol although some served food.
  • Customers were also served from an L-shaped marble counter 6-8 feet (1.8-2.4,) long, with latrines usually available at the rear.
  • They were often located near the Amphitheatres.
  • They remained open until late at night, and were places where patrons could drink and gamble.

Popina

  • Inexpensive restaurants, similar to the Taberna, but with the emphasis on cheap sit down meals for the poorer population such as Slaves, Freedmen and Foreigners.
  • They offered a basic menu of olives, bread, stews and Wines.
  • They would usually be a one roomed shop, opening onto the street, with customers served from an L-shaped marble counter 6-8 feet (1.8-2.4m) feet long.
  • Food was prepared on braziers and usually latrines were available at the rear.
  • A Popina has been excavated at Pompeii.

 

Popina in the Archeological Park of Pompeii

Posted in .