Maldon High Street will have a new addition this summer, in the form of SALT, an Italian restaurant specialising in handcrafted woodfired pizzas, grilled fish and meat, and cocktails.

Maldon Nub News went to take a look at the transformation.

The former Maldon Discount store and Venice Gelato restaurant buildings have been merged (Photo: Nub News)

The name 'SALT' was chosen to connect the restaurant's name with Maldon, known worldwide for its sea salt, and the essential seasoning which connects a variety of ingredients in many recipes: salt.

The team hopes to work closely with local independent suppliers to support other small businesses and bring the 'best and freshest ingredients' to the table.

SALT has shared previews of how the finished restaurant will look on social media

Asked why they chose Maldon, Sandra Furmane, SALT's social media manager, told Nub News: "Maldon seems a great place to be, with a close local community and some brilliant small businesses.

"We wanted to bring something authentic to this town, so people can get a real flavour of Italy in the High Street."

The team has started to engage with the local community on social media, including via Instagram, keeping the public up to date with their progress so far.

"This journey is full of challenges for sure, but we are slowly getting there!" Sandra Furmane, SALT's social media manager

Sandra said: "We work hard every day to get closer to the opening day.

"This journey is full of challenges for sure, but we are slowly getting there!"

Ismail puts the finishing touches to the exterior wall of the restaurant (Photo: Nub News)

Head Chef Francesco Caruso and manager Roberto Muca, a local entrepreneur, are both Italian, inspiring SALT's theme. They have both worked in successful restaurants previously and want to bring their wealth of experience to this latest venture.

The former Maldon Discount store was merged with Venice Gelato and Coffee to form a single restaurant. Aluminium windows and doors have been added across the front of both buildings.

All being well, the team hopes to announce their opening date by next month. They will invite businesses and members of the local community to join them for their opening.

In the meantime, SALT is currently advertising jobs for anyone who has a passion for hospitality and an outgoing personality.

To learn more about the restaurant, visit SALT's website.