A Seafood Platter that’s Too Pretty to Eat

Located on 109 St Asaph Street in Old Town Alexandria, Columbia Firehouse’s a charming Brasserie that serves killer American food all day, err day.  Unfortunately, we didn’t snap any photos of the interior, but it’s definitely work mentioning.  The building was constructed in 1871 and was originally a firehouse, hence the name.  The property was beautifully preserved and later – and by “later,” we mean wayyyyy later, like 127 years later – rebranded as a restaurant.  The place has a super cool dining area and a beautiful outdoor patio so make sure you take advantage before it gets too cold!

So, let’s begin with apps, Nomsters.  And btw, you’re in for a serious treat today because we got a massive amount of food, even more than usual.  To start, we got an order of their sweet summer corn fritters ($8), their Atlantic Seafood Platter ($98), and their baked oysters ($17).  The fritters, pictured above, came with a delicious chili lime aioli and were topped with shaved pecorino romano.  They were the perfect balance between sweet and savory, and we’re already looking forward to getting them again next time.

The Atlantic Seafood Platter was a total splurge.  It came with 12 oysters, 8 clams, 8 shrimp, 12 mussels, dungeness crab, 1.25 lb of whole Maine lobster, and it could feed a freaking army.  Unless you’re here with a group, this is probably going to be too much for you.  In which case, we recommend getting either the Potomac or Chesapeake platters.  The Potomac’s priced at $28 and comes with 6 oysters, 2 clams, 4 shrimp, and 4 mussels.  The Chesapeake costs $45, and it comes with 8 oysters, 4 clams, 8 shrimp, and 8 mussels.  You can also order things separately if you want to pick and choose.  They have a lot of different options available so order away, Nomsters.

Can we just talk about how pretty this seafood platter is though? It’s almost – key word, almost – too pretty to eat.

Anddd the baked oysters.  The cooks at Columbia Firehouse prepare them two different ways: cornmeal fried with green tomatoes, honey lime dressing + spicy remoulade or roasted with bread crumbs and n’duja butter.  Which style do you guys prefer?

Now, if you thought those apps were good, you’re in for a doozy because their entrees kicked @$$.  We got a side of mac n’ cheese ($8), the 12 oz rib eye ($36), their house smoked pork ribs ($17 for half rack, $28 for a whole rack), and their crispy fried chicken sandwich ($13).  The chicken sandwich came with fries (sub salad if you want to be healthier) and was made with smoked blue cheese, buffalo sauce, bacon, lettuce, and tomato on an olive oil bun.  It was a solid sandwich, but the steak and ribs stole the show for sure.

The ribeye came with creamed spinach, smoked blue cheese, and onion rings in a red wine sauce.  Everything about the plate was an absolute do.  The meat was cooked to perfection, and the sauce complemented it beautifully.

The ribs were a fantastic contrast to the steak – they were ridiculously smoky, and we mean that in the best way possible.  They came with cole slaw and potato salad (think elevated barbecue FTW).

And last but definitely not least, the macaroni and cheese.  Made with smoked gouda, fontina, white cheddar, and parmesan, this baked goodness hit the spot – definitely get this if you love cheese as much as we do…and let’s be real, everyone loves cheese.  Unless your lactose intolerant.  But even then, you probably still like cheese, ha!  #JustKidding #KindOf

Anywho, that’s a wrap, Nomsters.  We hope you enjoyed our latest food adventure in the DMV. If you’re looking for a cool new restaurant to try in Old Town, give Columbia Firehouse a try!  If you don’t mind dropping some moolah, their ribeye’s a great choice along with their Atlantic seafood platter.  If you want to browse other places in the area, check out our Virginia, Maryland, and DC tabs for recommendations.  Until next time, friends!