Liu Xiaomian Reveals a Spicy New Look and Launches Its Hottest-Ever Noodle Challenge
Chongqing noodle specialist Liu Xiaomian has unveiled a new look at its Carnaby restaurant and is turning up the heat with the launch of the 2026 Liu Xiaomian Spicy & Numbing Challenge in celebration of National Noodle Day this October.
Following an unexpected leak earlier this year, founders Linda and Charlene turned the necessary repairs into an opportunity to refresh the restaurant. Designed by Takagicaperan and delivered by MUSA, the new space takes inspiration from Chongqing’s striking cyberpunk cityscape, famous for its elevated roads, monorails and neon-lit architecture.
Bold red tiles, metallic finishes and new red seating now run throughout the restaurant, reflecting both the fiery flavours of Chongqing cuisine and the vibrant energy of the city. An extended dining area and new bar seating also make better use of the intimate Carnaby space while retaining Liu Xiaomian’s lively, casual atmosphere.
To celebrate its spicy new chapter, Liu Xiaomian will invite Londoners to put their heat tolerance to the test. Taking place at 5.30pm on 11, 12, 25 and 26 October, the Spicy & Numbing Challenge will see six participants per session tackle four increasingly intense rounds of Chongqing noodles.
The challenge is about heat rather than quantity, with smaller portions becoming progressively spicier and more numbing. The noodles will be at least three times hotter than Liu Xiaomian’s regular heat level, combining red Sichuan peppercorn with several chilli varieties including the tiny but ferocious “Starry Sky” chilli.
Each participant must finish the required portion to progress, with no water, drinks or other food allowed during the challenge. Anyone reaching for water is eliminated, and the last challenger standing will be crowned the winner.
One winner from each session will receive a year’s supply of Liu Xiaomian noodles, redeemable as one complimentary bowl per month for 12 months.
The refreshed menu also welcomes Chao Shou Mian (抄手面), bringing Liu Xiaomian’s handmade Chongqing-style pork wontons and noodles together in one bowl. Inspired by regular customers who had already been ordering the combination and a dish currently trending in Chongqing; it has now earned an official place on the menu.
2026 Liu Xiaomian Spicy & Numbing Challenge
- Dates: 11, 12, 25 & 26 October 2026 (5:30PM)
- Location: Liu Xiaomian, Carnaby
- Entry: £12, redeemable against selected merchandise (6 participants/session)
- Prize: One complimentary bowl per month for 12 months, T&Cs applied
- Booking: Booking here
- Participants must be aged 18 or over and will be required to review the challenge rules, allergen information and health guidance before taking part. Full T&Cs apply.