Call it the ‘Phoenix of Fargo’. Nearly two years after the historic Bison Turf Bar and Grill was severely damaged by fire, a reopening date has been set. And Valley News Live was there as the first beer was poured in the newly redone bar.

It took a matter of minutes for the NDSU watering hole to go up in flames. Now, two years and nearly $1.35 million dollars later, The Bison Turf has “Risen from the Ashes”.

It even says so on their newly designed 3,000 mugs.

Owner, Pete Sabo, wanted to reopen two weeks after the fire. But he's well aware that those ‘Opening Soon’ signs outside his bar, are a bit of a joke now.

"I think I'm going to open no later than the 8th of May. I want to be open by May 2nd," Sabo says.

So the countdown begins. The bar boasts a new outdoor upstairs patio, ready for bag tournaments.

But also maintains its history with stained glass windows and engraved tables that we're salvaged.

During our tour, Sabo poured his first beer in the bar.

Reporter: So you've already heard all the rumors about people thinking the fire wasn't a coincidence...

Sabo: I only tell people what it cost if they're in my face accusing me of taking the money. Because instead of taking the money, I had to spend another almost $400,000.

Reporter: Are you proud?

Sabo: I am. I'm proud how well it turned out. How functional everything is. And now that I poured the first beer here ever at The Turf. I'm just amazed how well it came out.

Fargo’s City Inspectors say the Health Department will be there Thursday.

Aside from the hoods on the kitchen being checked on, Sabo just needs to call for his final building inspection, then The Bison Turf can officially tap the kegs and fire up the grill for everyone.