About Conor
Conor was known for his infectious enthusiasm, largely appropriate sense of humor, apropos movie quotes, love of corduroy, abhorrence of denim, and never ending appreciation of a good time.
In his early years, Conor’s tepid relationship with the classroom prompted his grandma Rita to teach him fractions through baking and cooking. A passion for food, both in the kitchen and at the dining table, was inevitable.
Born of summers at Crescent Beach and winters in Ellicottville, Conor found in the culinary program at Paul Smith’s College in the Adirondacks a familiar milieu of woods and water in which to hone his art.
Upon his return to Buffalo, Conor pursued a culinary career that included stints at Le Metro, Papaya, the obligatory tour of duty at Tempo, Muse at the Albright Knox, and Solé.
At the tender age of 24, Conor became the founding chef and creative collaborator of Coco Bar and Bistro. Always willing, able, and eager to handle every culinary challenge he and Maura Crawford (Owner of Coco) dreamed up - Moules Fest, Game of Thrones dinners, Rosé Soiree, Wanderlust Weekends, wine dinners - Conor was one of the most adventurous and accomplished chefs in Western New York.
Conor’s dedication to his craft garnered admiration from his peers and devotion from both friends and strangers, who continue to return to Coco to enjoy his culinary creations and the atmosphere of food and fun that he leaves behind.
Conor passed in 2022 at the age of 34, just 14 months after being diagnosed with glioblastoma.
Conor’s entrances were always late and energetic, relying on his cheeky smile and casual charm to make amends. Unlike his entrances, his final departure was peaceful and much, much too early.
Thank you Chef!
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