Matt Spaulding, a longtime chef with Quahog Republic, is the new owner of Whaler's Tavern.

Spaulding said he has changed the menu, and regular customers are impressed.

NEW BEDFORD — Quahog Republic Whaler’s Tavern on Water Street is getting a switch in ownership by a familiar face who hopes to change the restaurant into an entrée-based date night spot.

Matt Spaulding, a veteran of the Quahog Republic group, has officially stepped into ownership after working off and on with the restaurant since its opening 25 years ago.

"I started when I was 16, working for them,” Spaulding said. "I turned 40 this year, so I guess that spurred it on too.”

After a few brief departures early on because the restaurant was only seasonal back then, he found his way back. For the last 15 years, he’s be

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