There are few things more joyful than a meal that feels like it’s been made with love – and at Noodle and Beer, that love now extends to your dog, too. Hannah Tan and our intrepid doggy rePAWter TeamCocopup Charlie ventured into Spitalfields to try the cult Sichuan spot’s ‘Build your own Doggy Bowl’ experience.
Tucked into the ever-buzzy streets of Spitalfields, this cult Sichuan favourite has always been about more than just noodles. It’s about heritage, memory and the kind of deep, comforting flavours that linger long after the last bite. Born from a childhood spent in Sichuan kitchens – where recipes were passed down in the warmth of family and the rhythm of the back-of-house – Noodle and Beer’s soul lies in Chongqing Xiaomian. It’s a dish that’s deceptively simple, yet layered with over ten seasonings, chilli, pepper, garlic, ginger, sesame, creating that unmistakable, addictive heat that defines the region.
And now, for a limited time, that soulful experience comes with a charming, tail-wagging twist.
We visited for the launch of Paws & Bowls, a special menu created in collaboration with British pet lifestyle brand Hide & Seek London. Before we even get to the dogs (patience), let’s talk about the food because this is where Noodle and Beer’s authenticity really shines.
We started indulgently, as all good meals should, with the fried spare ribs and fried chicken wings – golden, crisp, and unapologetically moreish. Then came the choo-shou dumplings, swimming in that signature peanut butter and chilli oil, balancing heat with a nutty richness that feels both comforting and electric.
And then, the star: the niu rou mian. The beef noodle soup is everything you want it to be, deeply savoury, richly spiced, with tender beef that falls apart just enough. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, grounding you in something authentic and quietly nostalgic.
But what elevates the entire experience – beyond the food, beyond the concept – is the feeling. The staff were genuinely lovely, attentive without ever being overbearing, and even surprised us with a handwritten card. It’s these small, thoughtful gestures that turn a good meal into something memorable.
Now, onto the dogs.
Every Sunday, from 15 March to 5 April, Noodle and Beer has a dedicated section of the restaurant transforms into a shared space for paw-rents and their furry companions. At the centre of it all is the Build Your Own Doggy Bowl, a surprisingly chic affair featuring a base of finely chopped steamed broccoli, topped with premium freeze-dried proteins like chicken, duck or goose liver. A sprinkle of rainbow biscuits adds a playful finish, while the Rainbow Puppuccino, whipped cream crowned with a colourful biscuit, feels like the ultimate indulgence. TeamCocopup Charlie absolutely loved the menu on offer and even insisted on seconds.
It’s thoughtful, it’s well-executed, and most importantly, it feels genuine. Not gimmicky, not forced, just a natural extension of the idea that pets are family, which is something we all stand by here at House of Coco.
In a city that’s constantly chasing the next new thing, Paws & Bowls feels refreshingly sincere. It’s a celebration of good food, great company, and the quiet joy of sharing both with the ones we love most – whether they walk on two legs or four.
And honestly? We’ll be back.
To book a table or to learn more about Paws and Bowls visit www.noodleandbeer.com.
To get more ideas for dog-friendly things to do in and around London then check out our other TeamCocopup stories.
