Fast food joint

This fast food joint dates from about 2000 years ago, when the Romans used to grab their lunch at one of several thermopolia around the city of Pompeii. The name, in Greek, comes from the fact that the food could be served hot or cold - the holes in the counter would contain vessels or jars with food or wine - and customers would order and then stand at the bar to have a quick snack before getting on with their business of the day.

In the guidebook to Pompeii this is listed as the 'Thermopolium of Vetutius Placidus' - the Burger King of his day. Sadly it all became a bit flame-grilled in 79AD.