An alert, passing motorist is credited with saving a Nesquehoning restaurant from possibly burning to the ground Sunday morning.

Several fire departments responded shortly after 7 a.m. to the Le Quattro Stagioni Restaurant at the intersection of Routes 209 and 93 in Nesquehoning after smoke was seen coming from the roof and roof eaves.The restaurant, also referred to as DiMaggio's, was closed at the time.The firefighters contained the fire to the roof area.Nesquehoning Fire Chief John McArdle said the entire structure had smoke and water damage.The fire was discovered by a Carbon County employee en route home from work. The worker, who didn't want his name used, said he saw smoke coming from the roof and vents, so he called 911.Tim Wuttke, Nesquehoning police officer, said although there were no visible flames, the alertness of the individual who spotted the fire probably prevented a much more serious fire.McArdle said the fire was contained to the roof and vent areas. The cause hasn't been determined.Responding were firefighters from Nesquehoning, New Columbus, Hauto, Lansford and Summit Hill. Lehighton and Mahoning Valley Ambulance Corps were also at the scene.There were no reported injuries.