If you’re searching for the best new London noodle pop-up, your hunt ends here. Liu Xiaomian, the cult-favourite Chongqing noodle specialists, have teamed up with The Stranded, one of the newest The Strand restaurants, to bring Londoners a fiery winter feast. Here’s why this hot collaboration deserves a spot on your must-visit list.
1. London’s Most Talked-About Spicy Noodles
Get ready to slurp up some serious heat. Liu Xiaomian’s signature dishes — Chongqing Xiaomian (重庆小面) and Hot & Sour Glass Noodles (酸辣粉) — deliver the bold, complex flavours that have made them a sensation in London’s food scene. Each bowl is crowned with their addictive, homemade chilli oil — a must for anyone craving spicy noodles in London that pack both punch and personality.
2. Free Noodles for the First 66 Guests
In true lucky Chinese fashion, the first 66 bowls will be given away free when doors open on Friday 14th November — a date considered lucky in the Chinese Yellow Calendar. So, if you’re looking for an early winter treat, head down to The Strand and claim your free bowl of flavour-packed noodles while they last.
3. Perfect Pub Pairings
Nothing pairs better with heat than a frothy pint. The Stranded serves a special Czech beer with the perfect head, alongside in-house bubble tea and even a coffee robot (yes, you read that right). It’s the kind of quirky detail that makes this Strand restaurant stand out from the crowd, offering something for everyone — from spice lovers to curious foodies.
4. A Warm and Lively Winter Hangout
This stylish new pub seats around 300 guests, with a dedicated 20-seat Liu Xiaomian dining area. The Stranded’s lively, modern vibe makes it the ideal place to bunker down this winter — the perfect combo of steaming noodles, buzzing atmosphere, and central London convenience.
5. The Story Behind the Spice
Founded by Charlene and Linda Liu, two friends from Chongqing — China’s spice capital — Liu Xiaomian started as a humble street-food stall in 2017. Fast forward to today, and their Carnaby flagship is hailed by The Times for bringing “heat, heart and serious flavour” to the city. Their latest London noodle pop-up at The Stranded continues that legacy, offering diners comfort, freshness, and unforgettable spice.
📍 Location: The Stranded, 430 Strand, London WC2R 0JR
🍜 Bookings: www.liu-xiaomian.com/booking
📅 Opens: 14th November
📸 Instagram: @liu_xiaomian | @thestrandedldn
This spicy noodle pop-up on The Strand is hot, comforting, and utterly unmissable. Whether you’re a chilli addict or just love discovering bold new flavours, Liu Xiaomian x The Stranded is the perfect place to get deliciously stranded in central London this winter.