Noodle and Beer, Spitalfields

Noodle & Beer in Spitalfields brings the heat and heart of Chongqing to East London with its fierce, fiery and authentic take on Chinese cuisine. The compact space hums with activity as steaming bowls of handmade noodles in bold, spicy broths fly from the open kitchen. Specialising in the lesser-seen flavours of Chongqing—an inland city known for its intense chilli and peppercorn-laden dishes—this unfussy restaurant has become a cult destination for those seeking true regional Chinese cooking. The interiors are stripped back and practical, letting the food do the talking, while the name itself signals the restaurant’s dual passions: chewy, hand-pulled noodles and crisp cold beer. Diners queue daily for a hit of serious heat and slurpable satisfaction in what is arguably one of East London’s most authentic Chinese kitchens. The menu champions handmade noodles served swimming in complex, deeply savoury broths, often topped with braised meats or sizzling with chilli oil. It’s a casual, no-frills experience that prioritises flavour above all, making it an essential stop for those after real Chinese food, particularly around lunchtime or a low-key dinner. A neighbourhood favourite for those in the know, sometimes offering limited-run specials that draw loyal fans back again and again.