I'm not a big fan of dramatic change, so I pretty much stopped going to Blind Pig following the opening of the new seating area (unless I am drunk, in which case I don't care). The beer selection is good and the bar staff is usually very friendly, but I don't know about this whole four or five star business.
Do not attempt the Blind Pig if you are claustrophobic, unless you are drunk and/or it's not prime drink time.