Suma Restaurant + Bar opening in Bethesda (Photos+menu), Pi Pizzeria opening 4 PM today

Suma Restaurant + Bar is the new concept at the former Nest Cafe space at 4921 Bethesda Avenue. They've been having a soft opening over the last few days, and the official opening is scheduled for tomorrow, April 19. Ignore the Nest signs that are still on the facade at the moment.

The outdoor deck was crowded despite the quiet launch. In terms of expectations and hours today, keep in mind it is a soft opening, but the menu and makeover look great.

There is an emphasis on farm-sourced ingredients, and a mixture of popular appetizers like oysters, deviled eggs and wings combined with sophisticated ones like Chicken Liver Parfait and pan-seared foie gras.

Entrees are much the same, with whole bronzini and steak frites sharing space with duck confit sausage pizza with smoked gruyere, scallions, caramelized onions and hoisin sauce. Pricing isn't too bad when you consider you are getting side dishes you might have to put out $8 for on other restaurant menus. See below for the menu and wine list (click to enlarge).

Meanwhile, Barack Obama's favorite pizza comes to Bethesda today. Pi Pizzeria will open at 7137 Wisconsin Avenue. There's parking in the rear. Take note that they won't be open for lunch - the grand opening will be at 4:00 PM. They're offering a buy-one-get-one free to 75 customers - click here to see if you're one of them.

Also, don't forget Bethesda Row Restaurant Week 2016 starts today at lunchtime.

The Shore House to replace Nest Cafe on Bethesda Avenue

The new ownership of the Nest Cafe, which announced it was closing for renovations to reopen this year, has given the restaurant a new name - The Shore House. No details yet on the menu, but I hear the cuisine will be American.

Nest Cafe closed "for renovations" in Bethesda (Photos)

Nest Cafe is closed at 4921 Bethesda Avenue. A sign on the door says the restaurant is "closed for renovations," but gives no target date for reopening. The restaurant's website says Nest will reopen "with a new look in 2016."

Their Twitter account is still going, but clicking on their Facebook page in Google results takes you to a "Sorry, this content isn't available to you right now" message.

WINE TASTING IN BETHESDA TONIGHT

You'd be surprised how many people visit Bethesda Avenue and don't realize there is a whole other world there on the other side of Arlington Road.

Find out tonight with a Lantana wine tasting at Cork 57, from 5-8 PM.

Wines you'll be sampling include David Hill's Pinot Gris (rated 93 by Wine Enthusiast) and Black Label Reserve 2008 (90).   Then move on to Columbia Valley's Kiona, Ferme de Gicon Rose, and Premio Falanghina.

Broaden your wine expertise tonight at Cork 57, and then check out other spots over there, like the popular patio at Nest Cafe, the Queen Bee Cafe and Bethesda Crab House.