For Connor Butler being a great chef is about being a great host.
"To me being a great host is about recognizing the individuality of my guests," Butler said. "Each one is different and has a different idea of what the ideal dining experience would be.
"You need to be able to instantly recognize who needs what without asking and that takes a lot of that Spidey-sense and caring about the people."
With an emphasis on a la carte options at Restaurant Connor Butler, at 2145 Granville St., Butler spends half his night inside his cozy dining room with guests to gain an intimate knowledge of what they are looking for.
"You saw this with Paul Bocuse," said Butler. "They're out there talking to you."
Butler goes as far as tailoring his French cuisine to the regional tastes of his diners.
"People know that's my reputation now," he said. "If we don't hit it right on the head they'll let me know."
