Alfonso Rao discusses cooking up his favourite Italian dishes, his passion for football and how he winds down outside the practice.
Please introduce yourself
Ciao I am Alfonso, an Italian dentist living and practising in Bristol.
I am married to the woman of my dreams and a proud father of two bellissime girls (aged one and three years old).
What do you get up to in your spare time away from dentistry?
I like to spend time with my family and friends. We often meet with groups of friends that have kids of similar ages and arrange activities together. We also like to travel whenever possible.
I am really keen football supporter and I watch Napoli play every Sunday.
Are you a foodie? Why and what particular food do you go for?
I really like all sorts of food but my passion is Italian. We like to eat at home with friends but the Bristol food scene has improved a lot during last few years and we love discovering new local independent restaurants.
I stopped cooking a few years ago but discovered the pleasure again during this lockdown. I really like seafood and enjoy cooking pasta.
Are you into any sport? If so what sport? Why did you get into it in the first place?
I used to play a lot of sports (such as tennis, skiing and fencing) but I’ve always loved to played football. Typical Italian stereotype, I know.
I used to play a lot but when I was 17 I damaged my cruciate ligament, so had to stop playing for a team. Now, I only play 5 a side with friends.
What type of television/movies do you like – any guilty pleasures?
I like movies and documentaries. I’m not big fan of watching a series due to a lack of time – it’s difficult for me to follow.
I like thrillers and comedy mainly.
Do you like to travel and do your hobbies take you anywhere in particular?
I really like to travel. With my family, we usually spend part of the summer in Italy and then we go somewhere else different to explore new places.
I like cars and bikes and I travel with my car whenever I can.
Of course, I have a preference for fast Italian cars. But I ride my Vespa to work every day.
Why is it important to have hobbies away from your profession?
During the week I’m always busy and I work many hours. Therefore, it’s important to have hobbies and other interests outside of work which helps to relieve stress.
Whenever I can, I enjoy driving my car in the countryside with a friend, but it’s also important to spend quality time with my family outside work.
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