Celebrated table

Liu Xiaomian Carnaby

Founders Charlene and Linda Liu bring authentic Chongqing spices to a casual Soho space recognized as a Local Gem.

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The story

Liu Xiaomian Carnaby: Chongqing Noodle Specialist in London

A focused kitchen built on family recipes

Liu Xiaomian Carnaby brings authentic Chinese noodle craftsmanship to a modest first floor unit in London’s Kingly Court. Sisters Charlene and Linda Liu founded the concept after years of testing seasonings in their London flat, eventually perfecting a house made chilli oil infused with Sichuan pepper and ginger. Their culinary method strips away unnecessary complexity to highlight the raw heat and savory depth of traditional Chongqing cooking. This dedication to precise spice balancing recently secured a Local Gem rating from The Good Food Guide.

Signature noodles and customizable heat

Guests order handmade wheat noodles tossed in minced pork, spicy beef, or a chickpea blend that coats every strand in glossy sauce. The menu also features translucent sweet potato starch glass noodles served with a tangy hot and sour base that accommodates vegan and gluten free preferences. Diners can request additional spice levels or switch to numbing wonton dumplings steeped in the same peppercorn rich broth. A simple cucumber salad or fried soya beans often accompany the main bowls to balance the intensity of this Chinese preparation.

Casual space and steady service

The dining area occupies a basic, casual room directly above the street level, prioritizing efficiency and conversation over polished decor. Fast paced staff guide newcomers through the heat scale while regulars trade laughter between sipping cold beers or iced teas. The straightforward layout keeps the focus squarely on the steaming bowls and the quick turnover that draws consistent crowds. This unpretentious environment supports the practical charm that defines their streamlined Chinese dining experience.

Recognition

Awards & accolades

2026
The Good Food Guide
Local Gem

Details

At a glance

The Good Food Guide 2026 — Local Gem
Cuisines Chinese
Services Air Conditioning, Dinner, Private Parties, Table Service, Takeaway

History

On the record

2026
The Good Food Guide — Local Gem

Following on from the success of their Marylebone original, Charlene Liu and Linda Liu’s Soho offshoot is housed in a basic, casual spot on the first floor of Kingly Court. Choice is down to variations on two Chongqing classics: pork, beef or vegan xiaomian wheat noodles in an aromatic and spicy broth, or hot-and-sour glass noodles (minced pork, vegan or gluten-free). You can dial the heat up or down, or opt for the ‘numbing’ pork-filled wonton in a broth packed with Szechuan peppercorns – perhaps with a cooling side of cucumber salad. Beer, cocktails or iced tea may be preferable to wine. Fast-paced, friendly staff give good advice, while happy customers bring laughter and life.

Established

Location

Find us

First Floor, Kingly Court, Carnaby Street, Soho, W1B 5PW
London, United Kingdom
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Map showing Liu Xiaomian Carnaby