Chongqing noodle specialist Liu Xiaomian has unveiled a bold 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.
Linda and Charlene, co-founders of Liu Xiaomian, say:
“The refurbishment wasn’t something we originally planned, but we decided to turn an unexpected challenge into an opportunity. We wanted the space to feel even more connected to where we come from, bringing a little of Chongqing’s energy and cyberpunk character to London. To celebrate this new chapter, we’re also putting Londoners’ spice tolerance to the test. People have been telling us for years that they can handle our Extra Hot noodles so now it’s time to prove it! Just remember asking for water means it’s over.”
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.
With its vibrant new interiors, fiery challenge and latest menu addition, Liu Xiaomian’s refreshed Carnaby restaurant brings even more of Chongqing’s flavour, energy and character to the heart of London.
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
