09/11/2026
🦁🇮🇹 MEET THE TEAM – MICHAEL! 🇮🇹🦁
This week we're getting to know another familiar face behind the bar… MICHAEL! 🍻
Originally from Bari, in the south of Italy, Michael has been part of the White Lion family for around five years. But how much do you really know about him? Let's find out!
1️⃣ Tell us a little about yourself!
I'm Michael, originally from Bari, in Puglia, southern Italy – more commonly known as the heel of the boot! I've been living in Lanzarote since 2021.
2️⃣ What brought you to Lanzarote?
It wasn't really the plan! I was considering going back to England, but my best friend gave me an opportunity to achieve one of our goals. I made the decision in just THREE DAYS, changed my flights and took a chance on a new experience! ✈️
3️⃣ You previously worked in one of Gino's restaurants. What's the biggest difference between a restaurant and a sports bar?
In a restaurant, everything is about being professional and paying attention to every little detail. In a sports bar, you can be more relaxed, chat with customers and make them feel at home. That's what I enjoy!
4️⃣ You've been with us for around five years. What's kept you here?
The people! We have a really friendly team who help each other out without hesitation. And of course, Tracy is a great person both inside and outside work. ❤️
5️⃣ What's your favourite thing about working at the White Lion?
It's not too stressful, and I enjoy being able to interact with customers. I'm not the best when it comes to sports knowledge, but I've been learning a few things since I started! 😂
6️⃣ Being Italian, what's one food you could eat every day?
PIZZA! 🍕 If it didn't affect my health, I'd happily eat it every day. But definitely no pineapple – I still have my traditions to respect! 😂
7️⃣ What's your favourite thing on our menu?
Definitely the Spice Bag! I still don't know exactly what's in the spice mix, but apparently I could use it to season absolutely everything! 😂
I'd also love to see some fish and pork pies or, of course, some sliced pizza!
8️⃣ What do you enjoy doing outside work?
Training to improve my skills, going to the gym and enjoying a nice walk in the beautiful Lanzarote weather.
9️⃣ What's your drink of choice?
Since trying it, I have to say Guinness on draught! 🍺
🔟 We know you're a massive Bari supporter. Tell us about that!
I used to support AC Milan because some of my favourite players played for them. But as I got older, I started believing it's better to support the team from your own city.
Going to the stadium and supporting Bari became almost like a religion! My brother, nephew and girlfriend support Inter Milan, so I sometimes watch their games too, but Bari will always come first!
1️⃣1️⃣ Bari winning promotion or Italy winning the World Cup? Which would mean more?
BARI, EVERY TIME! 😂🐔
Italy have won enough in the past!
1️⃣2️⃣ If the rest of the team had to describe you in three words, what would they say?
Fat, tidy and scary!
And unfortunately, if they said that, they'd probably be telling the truth! 🤣
1️⃣3️⃣ What's one thing you'd like customers to know about you?
That I want Bari back in the first division! 😂
But honestly, most of our regular customers already know me pretty well because I'm always myself with them.
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A BIG THANK YOU to Michael for being part of the White Lion family for the last five years! ❤️
Next time you're in, make sure you say hello!
🦁 THE WHITE LION SPORTS BAR – MEET THE TEAM! 🍻
