The SouthCoast dining scene is about to get a splash of excitement. Black Salt, the wildly popular Swansea restaurant known for its daring seafood dishes and modern comfort foods, is expanding. Fear not, Swansea, you aren't losing one of the town's best.

A Second Location, Not a Move

Owner Tania Novo confirmed that Black Salt will keep its Swansea hub while opening a brand-new restaurant called Anchor and Stone on the Westport–Fall River line, at the former LePage's Seafood location.

“It’s nerve-racking but very exciting,” Novo said. “We’re keeping everything that makes Black Salt special but giving the new spot its own identity.”

The deal is expected to close by Halloween, pending a liquor license approval. From there, ownership will shift into full renovation mode, with plans to open by summer of 2026. Expect major renovations to the former LePage's building.

A Tribute to Family and the Sea

While Black Salt has its own signature feel, Anchor and Stone will be a nautical-inspired restaurant honoring Novo’s late father, a Marine in Portugal. “We wanted to do something that felt close to him,” she said. “It’s on the water, so it made sense to lean into that coastal energy.”

A Bigger Space and Big Ambitions

The new location will be roughly three times larger than Black Salt’s current dining area, with room for 180 guests inside and another 40 to 50 outside. The real draw for Novo was the ample parking. "It's just a huge parking lot with overflow parking, as well."

Anchor and Stone's Menu

A few favorite dishes, like Black Salt’s famous calamari and deviled eggs, will make the move. However, an exact menu is still up in the air. "The idea behind Anchor and Stone is coastal and seasonal. Lots of fresh, local seafood and really good feel good food," said Novo. "Once we're closer to opening we'll create a few signature dishes that make sense for that time.

Jobs Coming to Fall River

The new restaurant will hire about 60 full- and part-time staff. “It’s a huge step, but we’re ready,” Novo said. “It's time to grow."

23 Hole-in-the-Wall SouthCoast Restaurants

The Fun 107 audience suggested hundreds of hidden gems. Here were the Top 25 that got the most votes.

Gallery Credit: Michael Rock

SouthCoast Restaurants with Free Birthday Meals

Here are a few SouthCoast restaurants where you can celebrate with a free birthday meal.

Gallery Credit: Michael Rock

More From WBSM-AM/AM 1420