Xiang Xiang Hunan Cuisine Opens In Somerset With Outlet-Exclusive Dishes—Here’s A First Look

Xiang Xiang Hunan Cuisine opens at 313@Somerset

You’ve seen it everywhere: the green signs, the enthusiastic staff welcoming you in. Now, Xiang Xiang Hunan Cuisine has opened yet another outlet, this time at the highly central 313@Somerset. The franchise’s 20th location in Singapore, this outlet is easily the best-looking of the lot, featuring a sleek, woody aesthetic and upgraded furnishings.

But it’s not just the interiors that are different. The menu also features new outlet-exclusive dishes, which we were invited to try alongside some of their tried-and-true classics.

Food at Xiang Xiang Hunan Cuisine

Headlining the new menu is the Stir-fried Tender Chicken with Old Ginger ($26.90++), which arrived in a sizzling claypot that enticed us with its fragrance right away. If you’re wary of Hunan cuisine’s reputation for spicy dishes, this dish would be a good place to start, as it is on the lower end of the heat spectrum.

There were some chillies used here, giving the chicken some mild spiciness. But the dominant flavour was that of ginger, with some savoury notes of soy sauce coming through. All this came through in bite-sized slices that were soft and satisfying—enjoyable, yes, but not quite worth the price. The dish delivered comforting, homely flavours, just without much X factor.

The next new item, however, really fired us up. The Fresh Chili Spicy Prawn ($26.90++) saw tiger prawns stir-fried in a piquant, fiery sauce.

The combination of these sweet, juicy prawns and the punchy heat was an easy winner. Plus, hints of garlic and scallion were layered in for a more well-rounded flavour. Be warned, however, for this dish can get quite spicy.

We quelled some of that spice with the Mushroom & Shrimp Paste Soup ($12.90++), which we found to be a good addition to the menu. Light yet earthy and sweet, the broth was a pleasure to sip, especially when paired with the fresh, umami-rich shrimp paste balls.

As for sides, outlet-exclusives include the Cheesy Sweet Potato ($7.90++) and Walnut Buns ($4++). The former was a really indulgent treat, perhaps overly so—the richness of the cheese, coupled with the presence of both sweet potato and sweet corn, made it feel a little too excessive, but those with a tooth for such things may enjoy it.

The latter was simply a pleasant treat—resembling a literal walnut, this mantou-esque bun had the aroma of walnut and some walnut paste on the inside. You could dip this into the various sauces throughout your meal, or enjoy it on its own as a snack.

Of course, we can’t have a meal at Xiang Xiang without the iconic Hunan Stir-Fried Pork ($22.90++).

We will say, however, that after trying several other Hunan restaurants in Singapore, Xiang Xiang’s version had a few shortcomings. While this dish is traditionally sliced thin, it could be just a tad bit thicker for more succulence and bite, and the dish could use deeper savouriness and overall flavour, though it does deliver a decent spicy kick.

Note that all these items are eligible for a membership discount, and signing up is free. Just ask any staff member how you can do just that!

Ambience at Xiang Xiang Hunan Cuisine

As mentioned earlier, the restaurant looks fantastic. It’s more spacious than other Xiang Xiang outlets and features a nature-inspired design, with warm wood tones that complement the brand’s green aesthetic. There are also three private dining rooms for those seeking a more intimate experience.

Xiang Xiang Hunan Cuisine is a five-minute walk from Somerset MRT Station.

Xiang Xiang Hunan Cuisine – Eatbook Review

Xiang Xiang’s new Somerset outlet offers a polished setting and a few standout dishes, although some selections are underwhelming for their price. Still, with free membership discounts and a central location, it’s a solid choice for a reliable Hunan fix.

For more affordable eats in town, check out our guide to affordable food places in Somerset. You can also read our Orchard food guide for famous Taiwanese bubble tea, fresh shio pan and more.

Address: 313 Orchard Road, #B3-02 to 06, 313@Somerset, Singapore 238895
Opening hours: Daily 11am to 10pm
Tel: 6883 5866
Website
Xiang Xiang Hunan Cuisine is not a halal-certified eatery.

Photos taken by Jordan Ong.
This was a media tasting at Xiang Xiang Hunan Cuisine.