We sat down with Executive Chef Dean Bush, who shared how voco Orchard Singapore champions hearty, honest flavours that feel both comforting and contemporary.
In our conversation, he reflected on the hotel’s commitment to warmth, generosity, and food that brings people together.
For someone visiting voco Orchard Singapore for the first time, how would you describe the overall dining vibe?
voco Orchard Singapore is a hidden gem for foodies. We’ve got something for everyone — from laid-back bites to elevated experiences. Opus Bar and Grill brings bold grill flavours and playful twists like our afternoon tea experience – Skewers and Sliders Stack.
D9 Cakery is a dessert lover’s dream, while il Cielo on the rooftop serves up authentic Italian with a view. So whether you’re hanging out with friends, planning a family dinner, or going on a date, there’s always something good on the table.
How do you cater to families and kids across your dining venues? Are there special kids’ menu options?
We love having families dine with us, and it is important to us that the little ones have just as much fun as the grown-ups. At Opus Bar and Grill, our sliders and skewers can be easily adapted for younger palates. We do so by serving up comforting classics like crispy fish fillets and mini cheeseburgers that kids love.
Over at il Cielo, pizza and pasta are always a hit with children — made fresh with simple, familiar flavours that keep them coming back for more.
And when it’s time to celebrate? D9 Cakery is where the magic happens. Whether it’s our Lego-inspired cakes, a fun fusion of playful design and artisanal baking, or a custom creation, we try to make birthdays extra special. We believe every celebration should bring joy and creativity to the table — and that’s exactly what we do
How does Opus Bar and Grill integrate sustainability into its dining?
Sustainability is very important to us. We serve sustainably sourced seafood certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) and the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC). These certifications demonstrate the great care taken to ensure our seafood meets rigorous environmental and scientific standards for responsible fishing.
Plus, we are also mindful about food waste and have partnered with Treatsure, an innovative food sustainability platform. Using Treatsure, we redistribute surplus food from our buffet lunches to those who can enjoy it. This allows us to make a positive impact on both people and the planet.
How has Opus Bar & Grill reinvented its afternoon tea experience?
We wanted a fresh approach to appeal to diners of all ages. Thus, we revamped the menu to focus more on savoury bites with an Asian twist. We offer a range of options like teriyaki salmon skewers, bulgogi wagyu beef, and miso eggplant. We also offer sliders—mini cheeseburgers, smoked beef brisket, and crispy fish fillet—alongside a trio of desserts featuring our signature cheesecake and dark chocolate brownie.
The experience is personalized too: diners get to pick their own teacup from our eclectic collection, adding a fun, stylish touch. This fresh approach resonates with anyone who enjoys bold flavours in a laid-back vibe.
Plus, we’re happy to accommodate dietary preferences where possible—swapping proteins for plant-based options or adjusting marinades to suit individual needs.
What’s weekend dining at voco like?
Weekends are made for feasting, and we make sure of it. On Sundays, Grilled Out Sunday is a real crowd-pleaser. From flame-grilled meats served à la minute, crispy porchetta, seafood, and all the trimmings like Yorkshire puddings and shrimp cocktail, our diners have so much choice!
There’s even a dessert trolley that rolls up tableside. It’s all about big flavours, great vibes, and making Sundays special. And if you prefer something cosier, il Cielo offers a more intimate rooftop Italian lunch or dinner — the tiramisu is a must!
What makes il Cielo rooftop dining special?
il Cielo is designed as a cosy Italian escape right in the heart of the city. Nestled on Level 24, it boasts intimate indoor seating and a charming outdoor terrace by the pool with breathtaking views of Orchard Road.
Our menu focuses on house-made pastas, pizzas, and the iconic tiramisu, all crafted with passion and authentic Italian techniques. The extensive wine list, including prosecco and Italian varietals, complements the food perfectly. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a special dinner celebration, il Cielo offers a warm, inviting atmosphere paired with outstanding cuisine.
Could you tell us about D9 Cakery and what makes its offerings stand out?
D9 Cakery is our artisan cakery shop dedicated to crafting exquisite cakes, patisseries, pralines, and macarons daily using only the finest imported and seasonal ingredients.
Our signature is the Legendary Cheesecake, which has built a loyal following over the years for its rich, creamy texture and perfect balance of sweetness. This beloved classic inspired us to create the Cheesecake in a Jar, a modern twist designed for convenience without compromising on taste.
It comes in three delectable flavours — Apple Crumble, Carrot Cake, and Roasted Strawberry. guests and dessert enthusiasts alike. Our Pound Cake Collection are loved for their moist texture and rich taste features six varieties: Double Chocolate, Lemon Raspberry, Pandan Gula Melaka, Mixed Fruit, Carrot Walnut, and Banana.
Dean Bush – Executive Chef, voco Orchard Singapore
Born in England and now proudly calling Singapore home, Dean Bush brings over 20 years of global culinary expertise to his role as Executive Chef at voco Orchard Singapore. Known for his hands-on leadership and deep passion for honest, flavour-forward cooking, Dean has helmed busy kitchens across the globe — most notably as Executive Chef at the acclaimed Burnt Ends, a Michelin-starred modern barbecue restaurant and one of Asia’s top dining destinations.
At voco Orchard, Dean oversees all culinary operations with precision and creativity, leading the charge across the hotel’s signature dining venues including Opus Bar & Grill, il Cielo, and the beloved D9 Cakery. From championing sustainable sourcing and reducing food waste, to designing thoughtful menus for families and dietary-conscious guests, Dean brings a bold yet balanced approach to hotel dining. At The Club Lounge, his thoughtful touch extends to curated menus featuring wholesome breakfasts, elevated evening canapés, and refined small plates paired with fine wines and cocktails — offering guests a premium yet relaxed experience throughout the day.
His culinary philosophy is simple yet powerful: cook with purpose, lead with passion, and never stop evolving.
More about voco Orchard Singapore here.
581 Orchard Road Singapore 238883
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