Noodle and Beer in Chinatown: Sichuan Noodles and Late Nights
Noodle and Beer in Chinatown serves spicy Sichuan noodles and beer in a modern setting on Wardour Street. The restaurant focuses on dry and soup noodles with a chilli rating system, plus a downstairs cocktail bar that stays open late on weekends.
Location and Atmosphere
The Chinatown branch sits at 27 Wardour Street near the Chinatown Gate. The ground floor has a bright, contemporary look with mosaic floors and chilli-red accents. The lower level offers a dimmer cocktail bar space suited to later hours.
The original location opened in Spitalfields in 2019. This second site brings a similar menu to a more central address with longer weekend hours. The space feels more polished than a traditional canteen while keeping the focus on quick, flavourful bowls.
Diners looking for other noodle scenes will notice the clear Sichuan emphasis here rather than broader Chinese styles.
Signature Dishes and Menu Style
The menu stays relatively short and highlights noodles in three styles: dry, soup, and rice noodles. Signature options include Xian Jiao Niu Rou with beef and multiple chilli types, and Niu Rou Mian with braised beef and herbs. A chilli-ometer marks heat levels from one to five.
Small plates feature items such as mouth-watering chicken in chilli oil and peanuts, or dumplings with chicken and lotus root. The kitchen aims for authentic Sichuan seasoning with clear explanations for diners less familiar with the region. No pork appears on the menu, which broadens options for some dietary preferences.
Drinks and the Late-Night Bar
Beer options include Kirin Ichiban and a house lager on draught, plus bottled choices and a rotating beer of the month. Signature cocktails appear downstairs with twists on classics. The bar stays open until 4 am Wednesday through Saturday, making it one of the later options in the area.
Service tends to move quickly, which suits pre-theatre or post-event visits. Prices for noodles typically fall in the mid-range for central London, while cocktails sit around the standard West End level.
Visitors comparing casual dining spots may appreciate the combination of fast food and a proper bar.
What to Order for Different Preferences
Those new to Sichuan heat can start with lower chilli ratings or the chicken salad for a cold contrast. Beef-focused dry noodles deliver the strongest flavour for regulars. Vegetarian choices exist, including a vegan spicy noodle option.
The gold-coated beef dish has drawn positive mentions in reviews for its presentation and taste. Pairing a mid-heat noodle with a simple lager keeps the meal balanced. Desserts remain limited, so the focus stays on the savoury bowls.
Opening Hours and Practical Details
Weekday hours run from midday until 11 pm. Weekend service extends to 4 am on Wednesday through Saturday. Reservations help during peak evening hours, though walk-ins often work outside busy times.
The restaurant sits within easy reach of Leicester Square and Soho. Public transport options include nearby Underground stations. Street parking remains limited in Chinatown, so public transit works best.
How It Compares to Other Chinatown Options
Many Chinatown spots lean toward Cantonese or broader Chinese menus. Noodle and Beer keeps a tighter Sichuan focus with explicit heat guidance. The late hours set it apart from restaurants that close earlier.
Reviews frequently note the speed of service and the quality of the noodle texture. The chilli oil and peanut elements appear consistently well-executed across the small plates and main bowls.
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Cuisine | Sichuan noodles and small plates |
| Heat level | Marked 1-5 on menu |
| Late hours | Until 4 am Wed-Sat |
Tips for Visiting
Arrive earlier in the evening if you prefer the brighter upstairs seating. The downstairs bar works better after 10 pm. Check the current menu online for any seasonal specials, as the restaurant occasionally adds limited items.
Groups of two to four fit easily. Larger parties may need to book ahead. Cash and cards are both accepted. Those who enjoy regional speciality spots will find a clear identity here.
FAQs
What is Noodle and Beer in Chinatown?
It is a Sichuan noodle restaurant on Wardour Street that also operates a late-night cocktail bar. The menu focuses on spicy dry and soup noodles with a clear heat rating system.
Where is Noodle and Beer located?
The Chinatown branch is at 27 Wardour Street, London W1D 6PR, near the Chinatown Gate. A second location operates in Spitalfields.
What are the opening hours?
Midday to 11 pm most days. The restaurant stays open until 4 am from Wednesday to Saturday.
Is the food very spicy?
Many dishes carry heat, but the menu uses a 1-to-5 chilli scale so diners can choose lower options. Staff can also adjust or recommend milder items.
Do they serve alcohol?
Yes, including draught and bottled beers plus signature cocktails in the downstairs bar.
Is there a vegetarian menu?
Vegetarian and vegan noodle options appear on the menu, including a spicy vegan choice. The overall selection remains more limited than the meat dishes.
Do I need a reservation?
Reservations help during busy evenings but are not always required. Walk-ins work better earlier in the day or on quieter weeknights.
What should I order?
Start with the mouth-watering chicken or a mid-heat beef noodle such as Xian Jiao Niu Rou. Check the chilli rating before ordering if heat is a concern.
How does it compare to other Chinatown restaurants?
It specialises more narrowly in Sichuan noodles and stays open later than many neighbouring spots. The setting feels more modern than traditional canteens.
Is it suitable for groups?
Small groups of two to four fit comfortably. Larger parties should book in advance due to the compact space.
Can I visit after the theatre?
Yes, the late hours on weekends make it a practical option after shows in the nearby West End.
