London’s fiery favourite Liu Xiaomian is heating up The Strand this winter with a brand-new pop-up inside The Stranded, the stylish new pub from the team behind The Jackalope in Marylebone. In true lucky Chinese fashion, the first 66 bowls will be given away for free on Friday 14th November — a date considered especially fortunate in the Chinese Yellow Calendar.
From Chongqing to Carnaby — and Now, The Strand
Founded by Charlene Liu and Linda Liu, both hailing from Chongqing, China’s spice capital, Liu Xiaomian began as a small London street-food stall in 2017. Their mission? To share the soul-warming, tongue-tingling noodles of their hometown with Londoners.
Fast-forward to today, and the pair’s rise has been nothing short of spectacular. Their flagship Kingly Court, Carnaby location — opened in 2024 — earned praise from The Times for bringing “heat, heart and serious flavour” to the capital’s dining scene.
What’s on the Menu?
Expect Chongqing Xiaomian (wheat noodles) and Hot & Sour Glass Noodles (sweet potato starch) front and centre — both boasting layers of heat, aroma and satisfying texture. Signature toppings include Minced Pork & Chickpea, silky pork Wontons (老麻抄手), and the fan-favourite Cucumber Salad, all crowned with Liu Xiaomian’s addictive homemade chilli oil.
For those looking to tone down the spice, Liu Xiaomian caters to all palates. “I usually go for mild, while Charlene goes extra hot,” laughs Linda Liu. “That’s the beauty of our bowls — there’s something for everyone.”
The Perfect Pairing: Beer, Bubble Tea & Chill
Inside The Stranded, which seats around 300 guests, Liu Xiaomian will host a 20-cover dining area dedicated to their signature noodle experience. Diners can pair steaming bowls with the pub’s froth-topped Czech beer, in-house bubble tea, or even a coffee brewed by their upcoming robot barista — a first for The Strand.
“It’s the perfect next step,” says Charlene Liu. “A central London pub with a warm, buzzing atmosphere and plenty of space for everyone — ideal for those winter nights.”
Be Among the First
Liu Xiaomian’s kitchen officially opens on 14th November, with menus and bookings available from mid-October via liu-xiaomian.com/booking.
Whether you’re seeking London’s best spicy noodles or just a cosy spot to escape the cold, Liu Xiaomian x The Stranded promises bold flavours, fiery comfort and a seriously good pint.
This winter, get deliciously stranded on The Strand.
