Alarms are sounding in Old Town, lighting a fire in local bellies.

Where there’s smoke, there’s Columbia Firehouse, a new dual-concept American bistro and chophouse.

Appropriately located in a historic former firehouse, the restaurant does American flavors at their best. Scope a banquette in the glassed-in dining room or a space on the patio for three little pigs (mini dogs baked in soft bread) and steamed mussel in preparations like oven-dried tomatoes, arugula, bacon, and Parmesan.

Across the way, hose off at the barroom with retro cocktails (King Street Slings and Sazeracs) and dozens of microbrews assembled by beer ace Greg Engert.

The chophouse upstairs is decorated in original dark wood panels, old phone booths, and salvaged brass lanterns. It will open in a few weeks with locally sourced steaks, a raw bar, and an adjacent lounge for private events and wine tastings.

Multiple units are on their way.

Columbia Firehouse, 109 South Saint Asaph Street, Alexandria (703-683-1776 or columbiafirehouse.com).

Answers from Friday’s photo hunt (starting at top, from left to right):
Avalon Theater
2Amys sign, Key Bridge, National Arboretum
Ben’s Chili Bowl sign, Woodley Park mural, Dupont Circle fountain
Union Station Metro ceiling, The Exorcist steps, The Phillips Collection