We wrote about the McDonald's renovation back in December and I decided to stop in to check out the new space.

After I did, I wondered if McDonald's was stepping up to compete with Starbucks. One might think so if they stop in at the newly renovated Bedford Hills Mc Donalds.

The decor is super modern, with the feel of a place you were meant to hang out and stay awhile, not rush in and out. Store owner Bryan Colley happened to be on-site meeting with his manager and marketer when I stopped in just after the soft opening last week.

He pointed out the two flatscreen TV's, free WiFi, the fireplace in the middle of the store, the new muted earth-tone decor, bamboo café style chairs and artwork—some of it painted by Colley himself.

The new McCafe features cappucinos, coffee and frappes. Colley says that the new coffee is better than Starbucks coffee, both in flavor and price.

He also pointed out the new healthier menu, with items like fruit and maple oatmeal and real fruit smoothies.

Why the renovation? The store was founded 40 years ago by Bryan's father Eugene and it was time for a facelift says Colley. Plus he wanted to bring the store more in line with what he feels locals are looking for―lighter, healthier, in a little more upscale setting.

Though the store is already in operation and open to the public, there will be a formal "ribbon cutting" on Thurs., February 10 for local officials, McDonald's Corporate representatives, and board members of the Ronald McDonald House of the Greater Hudson Valley. Then, on Sat. February 12, they will host a fun-filled Grand Re-Opening celebration for the comunity. Ronald McDonald will be there to sign autographs and raffle off some pretty spectacular prizes including 2 flat screen TV's.

Colley lives in Lewisboro and chairs the Ronald McDonald House in Valhalla.

So, what do neighbors and locals think of the store? Debbie, pictured to the right, says she's impressed with the renovation and was really pleased that the staff was willing to make a custom cheeseburger for her daughter with no pickles and no ketchup. She says no other McDonald's store has ever offered. Her daughter enjoyed the fireplace on a chilly night.

Brian Durkin, a sales representative at the Honda dealership across he street, had a different response. "It's pretty, but did they have to spend that kind of money on a McDonald's? It is still Mc Donald's food. And still not something I would eat, no matter the 'improvements'."