The people have spoken. Last summer, when new owner Ignacio Ruiz turned Southern-style spot River Run into a Spanish restaurant called Tasca, many Plainfield residents were distraught about losing their favorite local hangout. “I wanted to grow old eating breakfast at River Run,” said regular Bryan Pfeiffer at the time. He and other fans will be pleased to know that, on March 1, River Run returns.

“What I tried to do with Spanish food just didn’t work in Plainfield,” admits Ruiz. The chef will retain ownership of River Run, but will cook his last meal at Tasca on February 26. After that, says Ruiz, he will still have a say in the menu, but he’s handing day-to-day operations over to chef Gabe Draper and manager Rhonna Gable.

“It will be more an American eatery with some of the Spanish tapas ideas with a little more American twist,” says Ruiz. Pulled pork and homemade potato chips will be on the menu. Breakfasts will make former regulars happy, with French toast, pancakes and catfish ’n’ eggs among the favorite dishes to return.

Though River Run duties will keep Ruiz busy, he has another major project in the works. He says he’s currently in negotiations to take over the space formerly occupied by Montpelier’s Black Door Bar and Bistro — and hopes to open a new restaurant in that prime location later this year.