The Interview: Diane and Darnell Butler
Together they operate one of our favorite joints at The Paper. We’re talking about Darnell (Bee) and Diane Butler, owners of Bee’z Eat’s. In between making some of the best (fill in the blank) around, we got them to submit to “The Interview” and learned a few things – like a classically trained chef’s go-to food is a PB&J sandwich. And Miss Diane loves her some pajamas and don’t take her on in Texas hold ‘em
Briefly describe yourself and what you do/did.
Darnell: Father, husband, Pop Pop and restaurateur
Diane: Wife, mother, Gramma and front of the house in Bee’z Eat’s
Best piece of business advice you’ve received.
Darnell: To count your pennies and the dollars will follow
Diane: Never let anyone change your personality
If I had it to do over …
Darnell: I would think twice
Diane:I would have listened to my mother’s advice more
You are going on an extended solo trip. What three albums and three books would you take?
Darnell: A mix of Sixties, Seventies and Eighties. The Millionaire Next Door; The Purpose Driven Life, Rich Dad Poor Dad.
Diane: Earth, Wind and Fire; Tina Marie and The Enchantments. Reader’s Digest, Foods That Harm and Foods That Heal, The Holy Bible.
Tell us one thing about yourself that few people know
Darnell: That I’m a really nice guy.
Diane: I love to be in my pajamas
You are hosting a dinner party for six. What five people, living or dead, would you invite and why
Darnell: Gordon Ramsay for insight; Tony Robbins for motivation; Dr. Stanley for spiritual guidance; Leprechaun for luck; my mother because she loves to eat and I love her.
Diane: Whitney Houston because my husband was a fan; The singer Prince because I was a fan; My friends of 35 years, Mary and Jackie, for great conversation (I can’t pick one); my mother to make it all interesting; my sister Judy for laughs.
Name an as yet unfulfilled dream.
Darnell: To hit the lottery
Diane: To be a nurse
If you weren’t doing what you are, you would be …
Darnell: Cruising around the world
Diane: A professional poker player
Your go-to food.
Darnell: PB&J sandwich
Diane: A bowl of Banana Nut Crunch cereal
Favorite movies(s)
Darnell: Avatar
Diane: The Color Purple
Dogs or cats?
Darnell: dogs
Diane: dogs
Your favorite quote and why
Darnell: You make your bed, you lie in it
Diane: It is what it is
Name something that you are extremely glad you did or accomplished
Darnell: Married my wife
Diane: Married Bee
What advice would you give your younger self just starting out on their own?
Darnell: To stay humble.
Diane Take your time and make good choices
