313 Somerset Guide: Shopping, Food, and Things to Do

Orchard Road is Singapore’s most famous shopping belt, and right at its center is 313 Somerset, a mall directly connected to Somerset MRT station. Known for its youthful atmosphere and wide range of dining options, 313 Somerset is one of the most popular stops for both locals and tourists exploring Orchard Road.

Whether you’re a Singaporean looking for the latest streetwear, a foodie hunting for your next meal, or a traveler exploring Orchard Road, here’s what I consider the ultimate guide to cool things to do at 313 Somerset.

Shopping at 313 Somerset

If Orchard Road is the runway of Singapore, then 313 Somerset is where the everyday person goes to actually shop. One of things I love most about this is the trendy energy it comes with. It is not dominated by luxury labels with intimidating price tags like ION Orchard. Instead, it is where you find the latest fashion and streetwear that you can actually wear out tomorrow without feeling guilty about your bank account.

Fashion and Lifestyle Highlights

• Uniqlo: The massive Uniqlo here is a lifesaver. Whether you are after travel basics or just a comfortable t-shirt, this is where most locals stock up. Even if you are looking for an office wear, you’ll find it here. I always notice students and professionals alike walking out with those signature white shopping bags.
• Zara: For something a little more polished, Zara comes to the rescue with its usual blend of trendy pieces and clean looks. It is a solid choice when you want to dress up without going full designer.
• Cotton On: If there is one brand that feels like home for young Singaporeans, that’s definitely Cotton On. Affordable, casual, and always pushing out fresh collections, it is perfect for weekend outfits or casual meetups.
• New Look and Forever 21: Although Forever 21 has pulled back globally, the atmosphere of trendy fast fashion still exists here. Perfect for those quick wardrobe refreshes or picking up pieces for a night out.
• Sportswear brands (Nike, Adidas, etc.): Orchard Road has its fair share of sports outlets, but 313 Somerset’s stores are particularly popular with the younger crowd. Whether you are shopping for gym gear or just want sneakers to go with your casual street look, you will find them here.

What really makes 313 Somerset stand out is accessibility and affordability. It is right above Somerset MRT, so students and young professionals can literally step off the train and into the shops. Unlike the luxury malls just a few minutes away, the prices here are more mid-range and friendly.

There is also always something happening.

NOTE: If you are planning a proper shopping trip, go on a weekday afternoon. You will certainly avoid the weekend rush. Also, the dressing rooms are less crowded around this time thereby giving you the opportunity to actually take your time browsing without bumping shoulders at every corner.

Food at 313 Somerset

If shopping keeps people coming back to 313 Somerset, the food makes them stay longer. This mall is one of those places where you can shop for hours and still have plenty of dining options waiting when you need a break. Whether you want local hawker-style meals in an air-conditioned setting or  international favorites, you’ll find it here. And those of you looking for something trendy for Instagram, 313 Somerset won’t let you down.

Popular Spots to Check Out

• Food Republic (Level 5 Food Court): This food court is where you get a taste of Singapore’s hawker culture without standing outside in the heat. It brings together local dishes like chicken rice and char kway teow under one roof. The prices are slightly higher than hawker centers, but considering you are enjoying comfort and convenience, I think it is worth it.
• Marché Mövenpick: A Swiss-style marketplace restaurant that lets you walk around and choose from live cooking stations. It is fun if you are dining with a group because everyone can pick different dishes, from pasta and crepes to roast meats.
• Genki Sushi: A favorite for casual sushi lovers like myself. Plates come rolling past on a conveyor belt, and it is always busy with young crowds. Thanks to the likes of affordable prices and fun presentations, this is a regular stop.
• Hot Tomato: If you are in the mood for hearty western meals, Hot Tomato is known for its grilled steaks and pasta and the combo plates (my favorite) that come at very reasonable prices compared to similar restaurants.
• KOI Thé and Gong Cha: Bubble tea is practically a part of Singaporean daily life. You will always see lines forming here, especially after school and office hours.

NOTE: Dinner time here is always packed, especially starting from 6 pm all the way to 8 pm. If you want a calmer dining experience, I recommend you go slightly earlier or later.

If you are exploring Orchard Road for food, 313 Somerset is a great, great starting point. But that said, you should also know that just a short walk away is ION Orchard, which has one of the most famous food courts on Orchard Road. Check out my full guide to the best food spots at ION Orchard.

Things to Do at 313 Somerset

The cool thing about 313 Somerset is that you don’t just shop and eat here. It is one of those hangout spots in the heart of Orchard Road where people spend hours without even realizing it. Beyond the retail stores and dining options, there are super fun entertainment and lifestyle activities that make the mall worth exploring.

Entertainment and Leisure

• Arcade: A lively spot for kids, teens, and even adults who still enjoy a round of games. Perfect for some quick fun in between shopping.
• Karaoke: Gather friends and belt out your favorite songs. Karaoke joints are still a favorite weekend activity for many locals.
• Bowling: Yes, 313 Somerset even has bowling. It adds to the mall’s appeal as a place to do more than just shop.
• Life 4 Cuts Photo Studio: This photo booth concept used to be popular in Singapore years ago, faded out, and is now back in fashion. It is fun and perfect if you want instant printed memories with friends.

Events and Pop-Ups

The central atrium at 313 Somerset is often busy with rotating events. Depending on the season, you might find fashion showcases, pop-up markets, or product launches happening here. These events keep the mall feeling fresh and give regular visitors something new to see each time.

Gateway to Orchard Road

One of the best things about 313 Somerset is its location. Step outside and you are right in the middle of Orchard Road. From here, you can easily walk to Orchard Central, ION Orchard, or Takashimaya. For travelers, it makes sense to use 313 Somerset as a base because it connects directly to Somerset MRT station and puts you in the center of Singapore’s most famous shopping district.

NOTE: If you are visiting Orchard Road for the first time, I suggest you start at 313 Somerset. From here, you can head in either direction along the road and explore all the major malls without missing anything.

How to Get to 313 Somerset

One of the best things about 313 Somerset is how easy it is to reach. Unlike some of Orchard Road’s larger malls that require a bit of walking from the station, this one is built directly above Somerset MRT, making it one of the most convenient stops on the shopping belt.

By MRT

Take the North-South Line (Red Line) and alight at Somerset MRT Station (NS23). From there, follow the exit signs and you will find yourself walking straight into the mall. You cannot miss it. This is the easiest and most popular way to get to 313 Somerset.

By Bus

Numerous buses stop along Orchard Road. Bus services that pass through include 7, 14, 16, 36, 65, 106, 111, 123, 124, 162, 174, and 190. Get off at the bus stop closest to Somerset MRT and you will be right outside the mall.

By Taxi or Grab

If you are using a taxi or Grab, just tell the driver “313 Somerset”. They will drop you off at the entrance along Orchard Road. There are designated drop-off points, so you do not have to worry about traffic flow.

Walking From Nearby Malls

Orchard Road is lined with shopping centers, all connected in some way. From 313 Somerset you can walk easily to Orchard Central and Orchard Gateway, as the malls are linked by underpasses and overhead bridges. This makes it convenient to plan a half-day shopping trail without ever leaving the comfort of air-conditioned walkways.

Tip: If you are new to Singapore, use Somerset MRT as your anchor. Once you exit into 313 Somerset, you can navigate Orchard Road in both directions and explore everything from high-end luxury malls to mid-range and budget-friendly shopping.

Crowd and Atmosphere

One of the best things about 313 Somerset is the energy that surrounds it. Step out of Somerset MRT and you are immediately in the middle of Orchard Road’s action. In the evenings especially, the crowds spill out of the station and into the mall, creating a constant buzz of movement.

Orchard Road itself comes alive after dark. Bright lights from neighboring malls like Orchard Shopping Centre reflect onto the street, adding to the festive atmosphere that Singapore’s main shopping belt is known for.

The glow of LED displays and colorful storefronts makes even a simple evening stroll here feel exciting. It is the kind of place where people do not just shop but also come to experience the city’s energy.

Being at 313 Somerset means you are at the heart of it all. Whether you are crossing with the rush-hour crowds or exploring the outdoor walkways, this part of Orchard Road never feels dull. The people, the lights, and the constant activity are what give 313 Somerset its charm beyond the shops inside.