After Two Millennia, Patrons Finally Seated at Italian Snack Bar

The above is a picture of the dining area at Vetutius Placidus‘ thermopolium (or snack bar).  The ancient eating establishment was buried under a massive wave of scalding ash during the eruption of Pompeii in the year 79. The Independent says:

The thermopolium, one of the best preserved sites in Pompeii, has been closed to the public for years in order to protect it from further damage. But following months of detailed excavation and preservation work, all visitors will soon be able to go inside and get an idea of a typical ancient Roman lunch establishment.

Is anyone else really hungry?

Dishes served at the thermopolium will include mostaccioli and globe, which we unfortunately can find no information on.  We’ll just have to assume that it’s delicious.  Archeologists think that Placidus’ establishment covered the complete Mediterranean diet, but also may have specialized in sweet treats featuring honey and ricotta cheese as ingredients.

Unfortunately for any survivors of the Vesuvius eruption, archeologists also discovered that the tip jar had been left behind.  No, really.

Full article at The Independent.

(via Neatorama.)