Bethesda construction update: Simona Cafe (Photos)

Here's a look at the progress at the latest location of Simona Cafe, at 4520 East-West Highway in downtown Bethesda. As you can see, the interior fit-out is close to complete, with tables and chairs now being moved into place. Kitchen and counter equipment are both visible, as is a logo blade sign on the building exterior. The local coffee shop chain has existing locations in Arlington and NoMa, but this is their largest store so far.

Bethesda Lidl update (Photos)

The new Lidl store at 7625 Old Georgetown Road at Bethesda Place still doesn't appear on the German grocery chain's "Grand Openings" page, and the shelves are still empty. But the recently-restarted work to complete the store's preparations for opening have continued apace over the last week. The most-noticeable addition is the first exterior signage, which is currently unlit. Another big step is the first shopping carts having been rolled into place inside the store's Old Georgetown vestibule, where a sign now labels the elevators to the parking garage. And another new sign promises fresh butter croissants for forty-nine cents.