Renovated Ron Black's Re-Opened

Technically, it's a school night. But c'mon. Why not go out for a late beer in White Plains? If you decide to do just that, you have your choice of several late night pubs. But you wouldn't choose wrong if you picked Ron Black's at 181 Mamaroneck Ave.

The decor - replete with dark, warm-toned wood and a grand rectangular bar - reminded me of a pirate ship. Festooned with sports pennants, there were plenty of big-screen monitors to take in the sporting event of the evening. There are huge wrought-iron chandeliers and above the picture windows facing the street is etched "When Opportunity Doesn't Knock, Build a Door." I can drink to that. 

Most important, however, is the massive bar with its impressive selection of more than 40 beers. There is ample outdoor and indoor seating for dining, but the fun is at the massive bar.

Bartenders Nicky and Sean were in firm command of the bar Wednesday night. Nicky, with his charming Irish brogue, shook hands with customers and generally made sure everyone felt comfortable and welcome.

The bar has been reopened for about five weeks after extensive renovations and Nicky said customers are already finding their way back in to enjoy the 'nice vibe.' We talked about Jimi Hendrix for a moment before he went off to check on other patrons. 

Sean was helpful with the bar history- it's been around since December 2009- and I was as impressed with his quick drink acumen as I was disappointed there was no ginger beer for the Dark and Stormy I was inspired to order by the decor. I quickly recovered and Sean easily persuaded me to check out the bar menu.

The late-night menu - available Wednesday to Saturday, 11 p.m. to 3:30 a.m. -  features classic appetizer fare: chicken wings, nachos, gourmet fries, chicken tenders, sliders and proper size burgers. The beer barbeque wings were flavorful, but not too spicy.

For fun, there are Happy Hour drink specials as well as a Wednesday night Trivia Game.

Ron Black's Beer Hall is open Monday through Friday: 4 p.m. to 4 a.m. Saturday and Sunday: 11 a.m.-4 a.m. There is also casual dining.  Dinner: Sunday -Thursday: 4 p.m.-10 p.m.; Friday-Saturday: 4 p.m.-11 p.m.; Brunch: Saturday-Sunday: 11 a.m.-4 p.m.