Khao soi soup is returning to Petworth in a new pop-up from the chef behind Alfie’s. (Photo courtesy of Alex McCoy)

When chef Alex McCoy took over the old Mothership space at 3301 Georgia Ave. NW, his goal was to have fun, cook good food, and test out some new ideas. There’s been plenty of activity so far. He’s opened and closed the first iteration of Alfie’s, an homage to Northern Thai cooking that he plans to eventually revive, as well as introduced his New Orleans-inspired Tchoup’s Market. And starting tomorrow, he’s bringing his Thai cooking back to Park View.

McCoy’s Nok Noi (meaning little bird) will debut November 2 and then run Wednesdays and Thursdays for the next few months. The menu focuses on Northern Thai khao soi, a curry-based noodle soup.

“Nok Noi is something I have wanted to do since we opened Alfie’s, and it just seemed like the right time to try it out,” McCoy says. “We are constantly working on the menu for Alfie’s and I’d love to see a classic khao soi component be brought into the fold. More than that, I just get a kick out of trying new things.”

Bowls will be priced between $12 and $14 along with a selection of Thai beers for $6. The main attraction is beef or chicken khao soi, made with coconut curry, house-made noodles, fried noodles, coriander, and Burmese spices ($13). Other menu dishes include nam ngiaw (pork rib noodles traditionally served alongside khao soi) as well as more classic Thai beef and pork noodle soups.

Tchoup’s Market fans don’t need to worry, though. The restaurant will be open Friday through Sunday during the colder months. McCoy says he plans to reserve the space Monday through Wednesday for other pop-up dinners and other events. So expect some special guests and new ideas.

“I love this city, it’s given me so much joy and I have been lucky to be able to be successful in this industry,” McCoy says. “I think that we owe it to ourselves to give back to the guys and gals who will be taking this city into the next generation of great restaurants, and if I can get a few in here and help them get on their feet, well, it’ll be well worth it.”

Nok Noi will be open at 3301 Georgia Ave. NW will debut on Wednesday, November 2. and then will continue on a weekly basis Wednesdays and Thursdays,from 5 to 11 p.m. The bar will remain open until 12:30 p.m.

Khao Soi Nok Noi by Travis on Scribd