I eat like a Roman, like an ancient Roman

I love ancient Rome and ancient Egypt. I’ve used them often in my cartoons.

I know they say that many guys think of ancient Rome often; sometimes once a day, which I find strange, but perhaps I do, too.

One thing I have in common with ancient Romans is the food stalls, known as “thermopolia.” They were food stands out and about the city, including Pompeii, which they have found in the ruins, and other “suburbs,” places all around the area.

Most ancient Romans didn’t have kitchens, they ate every meal out -and therein lies what I have in common with them – I basically eat every meal out. I don’t necessarily sit down at restaurants, but I do that, but also I get something quick to eat and bring it home. I try to avoid fast food, but I’ll get something fast.

The termopolia were bars with round holes in them where ceramic jars or other bowls with fires were and food was spooned out into something from the jars. They were affordable meals. People ate there daily and hung out and chatted and drank wine. These were small businesses, cared for by the owners, you can see by the beautiful murals, or what’s left of them, how much care went into these places.

And they ate Mediterranean. Which I try to do today. I even eat farro, which is an ancient grain, which is funny because when people talk about farro, they always follow it with “the ancient grain.” You can see the cartoon above where I featured farro. If farro is so great, why did people only live to age 30 back then?

Along with farro, lentils, stews, meats, fish and vegetables were served. There was also cheese and nuts and dried fruits. Most wine was served which was mixed with water to dilute it.

Over 80 thermopolium were found in Pompeii, they were very common and a part of everyday life.

My thermoplium consists of Panera Bread, Sweetgreen, Chicken Kitchen, Whole Foods, Fresh Market, Sprouts, Cheesecake Factory, and lots of local restaurants when I do sit down at a table and eat.

Eat like a Roman – an ancient Roman.

Until next time. . .

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