Manager and licensee Chris Codd estimated there were "about 1000 patrons" at a jam-packed free Dragon show on Saturday to launch the end of renovations at the revamped Harrigan's Hunter Valley at Pokolbin.
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"The place was buzzing ... it was terrific," Mr Codd said of the popular Irish pub.
"We have remained trading but we've been under renovation for just over 18 months, which is a long time.
"At various times we've had no gaming, or certain areas sectioned off. So this was just our way of saying it's all done, let's celebrate."
There is little doubt the renovation, which he vaguely puts at "between $4 million and $6 million", has modernised the place and given it a much roomier feel.
"We wanted to keep the Irish feel, but with a more modern feel," Mr Codd said. "We now have a lot more flexibility, and at the same time increased our outdoor seating by 30 per cent.
"It's great now, but will be even better in spring and autumn when we can open everything up and let the breeze flow through."
