Phoxotic Noodle Bar
Chef Hai Le of Phoxotic came to West Workshop with a deceptively simple brief: transform a raw, narrow retail shell in DC's Bloomingdale neighborhood into a world-class dining destination — with only 10 seats to work with. The challenge was making a space that small feel intentional, not cramped, while supporting a high-volume counter-service operation.
We designed the interior from the ground up, developing a language with plywood, blackened steel, and geometric tile that balances the precision of a professional kitchen with the intimacy of a kitchen counter. A continuous illuminated counter draws guests in, while the open-kitchen layout puts Chef Le's craft on full display. Every inch of our design was planned around maximizing efficiency without sacrificing atmosphere.
The result speaks for itself. Less than a year after opening, Phoxotic earned a coveted Michelin Bib Gourmand — a testament to what focused design and focused cooking can achieve, even in the smallest of rooms.
Late 2025, Phoxotic was added to the Michelin Guide for D.C.
Also awarded the Bib Gourmand Award by Michelin for good quality, good value cooking. Click the image below:
Project Type: Restaurant, Commercial Interiors
Location: Washington, D.C.
Status: Built 2024-25
Design Team: West Workshop, Lama Engineers
Images: Kurt West
Location: Washington, D.C.
Status: Built 2024-25
Design Team: West Workshop, Lama Engineers
Images: Kurt West