Tanyu 313 Somerset Review: Singapore First Self Pick Mala Skewers Experience

Fancy a unique fiery Skewer experience? Then you have to head down to Tanyu at 313 Somerset.

If you have walked past 313 Somerset anytime recently and wondered why there is always a crowd outside Tanyu, you are not alone. This is not just another Chinese grill restaurant riding the mala wave. Tanyu has managed to turn a familiar dining concept into something interactive, slightly addictive and very Singapore. Their latest highlight is the self pick skewer experience, which is reportedly a first in Singapore, and it changes how you approach mala entirely.

Instead of ordering from a fixed menu and hoping you chose well, Tanyu hands control back to diners. You walk up to the skewer counter, take a tray and start picking. Meat, seafood, vegetables, tofu, mushrooms, the options keep coming. It feels a bit like hotpot shopping but without the stress of soup bases and cooking times.

This sense of control and discovery is where the fun starts.

Singapore First Self Pick Skewer Experience

The self-pick skewer section is easily the star of the show. There are over 40 different skewers available, all specially curated to complement Tanyu’s signature mala seasoning. Each skewer is neatly displayed and clearly labelled, making it easy even for first-timers to jump right in.

We picked 15 different skewers, a mix of meats, vegetables and classics that you would expect from a mala grill lineup. Everything was then coated generously in mala spices and grilled till aromatic. The result is bold, smoky and unapologetically numbing.

What stands out is how customisable the experience feels. You can go all meat, all veg or a balanced mix. Portion control is also easier since each skewer is its own serving. This makes it great for groups where everyone wants something different, or for indecisive diners who want to try a bit of everything without committing to a full dish.

Flavour-wise, the mala and spice hits hard even when we choose the least spicy option, but in a good way. There is depth beyond just heat, with fragrant spices and a lingering numbing sensation that builds as you eat. For mala lovers, this is dangerously satisfying.

Signature Grill Fish in Spicy Pepper Sauce

Beyond skewers, Tanyu is still very much known for its grilled fish, and we had to try their signature grill fish in spicy pepper sauce. The good news for smaller groups is that this dish is now available in a smaller size suitable for one to two pax, which makes it far more accessible without needing a big group.

The fish arrives bubbling in sauce, fragrant with peppercorns and spices. The flesh is tender and absorbs the sauce beautifully, making every bite rich and comforting. That said, the fish is a little bony, so it does require some patience while eating. It is not a deal breaker, but something to be aware of if you prefer fuss free fillets.

This dish works well as a centrepiece to share alongside skewers. It adds variety and balances out the grilled elements with something saucier and warming.

Fiery Stir Fry Creations Not for the Faint Hearted

We also sampled one of Tanyu’s stir fry creations, the stir fried fiery chicken with green peppers. This is where things get serious.

The dish is intensely aromatic, with green peppers adding sharpness and freshness to the heat. The chicken is well cooked and coated evenly in sauce, but make no mistake, this is not a mild dish. It is the kind of spice that creeps up on you and then suddenly makes its presence known in a very real way. If you are sensitive to spice, this may cause somersaults in the stomach. For spice enthusiasts, however, this is exactly the kind of challenge you came for. It is bold, aggressive and memorable.

Ending on a Sweet Note

After all that heat, Tanyu wisely offers a sweet landing. We ended the meal with double taste rice cake and complimentary ice cream.

The rice cake provides a chewy contrast with subtle sweetness, helping to calm the palate after the mala assault. The free ice cream is a simple but thoughtful touch, and honestly, it feels well deserved by the end of the meal.

These small gestures show that Tanyu understands the full dining journey, not just the main event.

Queue Culture Done Right

One thing you cannot ignore about Tanyu is the queue. It is popular, and there is almost always a wait. However, this is one of the few places where queuing feels slightly less painful.

While waiting, drinks and snacks are provided, and there are even balloons to keep kids entertained. It may sound like a small thing, but it makes a difference. Instead of standing around frustrated, you feel taken care of, which sets a more positive tone before you even step inside.

Final Thoughts

Tanyu at 313 Somerset is more than just another mala spot. The self-pick skewer experience is genuinely fun and refreshing, giving diners freedom and variety in a way that feels well executed. With over 40 skewers to choose from, it encourages exploration and repeat visits.

The grilled fish remains a strong supporting act, especially now that smaller portions are available, while the stir-fry dishes cater to those who truly enjoy pushing their spice limits. Add in thoughtful touches like free desserts and queue time treats, and it is easy to see why Tanyu continues to draw crowds.

If you enjoy mala and want something interactive and a little different, this is worth the wait. Just come hungy and bring your spice game!