By Mal Butler
By Mal Butler
Famous Yarmouth restaurant and bar has new owners after the town’s Harbour Commissioners bought the freehold of the business.
The restaurant has been leased to AKA Restaurants, owners of the renowned The Hut in Colwell Bay, and will become an Italian eaterie.
The Hut confirmed on Instagram: “We are extremely excited to be able to announce that we are opening @saltys.pizza in May. Huge thank you to @yarmouthharbour for investing in Yarmouth and making it all happen.
“Salty’s has always been a special place for us, we grew up dancing on the tables and laughing the night away with Salty, Jo and family.
“It is an institution we are honoured to take through its next chapter. Our aim is to once again make Salty’s the epicentre of fun, family and good times, although with our own little Italian twist, of pizza and Negronis aplenty!”
Yarmouth Harbour Commissioners said: “The Yarmouth (Isle of Wight) Harbour Commissioners are pleased to confirm they have purchased the freehold interest in Salty’s restaurant and bar.
“The property is located adjacent to the harbour’s estate and is perceived to be an important facility for harbour visitors and locals.
“AKA Restaurants, owners of the Hut in Colwell will operate the facility under a new lease from the Harbour Commissioners.”
Yarmouth Harbour Master, Tim Adams, said: “We have been concerned over the reduction in visitor amenity in Yarmouth and a revitalised Salty’s will do much to uplift what the town has to offer.
“A leasing agreement has been reached and the new owners are aiming to open for business soon with an exciting new concept for this well-known and popular space.”
Sarah Turvill Chairman of the Commissioners added: “I am delighted that we have been able to conclude a timely purchase of the asset and I wish AKA every success with their new venture.”
The restaurant has been owned by Ed and Melanie Panek for the last few years but they were forced to give up their Yarmouth business interests including the delicatessen and Yarmouth Barber and Connoisseurs due to family health issues.
Meanwhile, Freshwater House, formerly The Standard Hotel in Freshwater and owned by Howard Spooner of The George Hotel, Yarmouth has been put on the market for £1.25m.
Carole Dennett