A new Thai restaurant is opening its doors in St Albans today and we were invited down to gain exclusive access and a first look inside.

Sala Thai Kitchen will have its first table at 5pm this evening (October 9). If you cannot make it for the opening, The Herts Advertiser has behind-the-scenes photos of the restaurant.

After a successful first six weeks operating as a takeaway, the owners are opening a restaurant, replacing Alloro Italian at 5a High Street.

The entrance to the building begins with a corridor featuring Thailand flags and impressive wall art.The entrance to the building begins with a corridor featuring Thailand flags and impressive wall art. (Image: Newsquest) Previously, the Thai food takeaway was based in Welwyn. Since then, couple and co-owners, Thippawan, 44, and Charlie Rashleigh, 45, have brought the business to St Albans.

Thippawan said: "We are so excited to finally open the restaurant, everyone around us has been very welcoming and lots of people from the community have helped us. 

Thippawan, 44, and Charlie Rashleigh, 45, have brought the business to St Albans.Thippawan, 44, and Charlie Rashleigh, 45, have brought the business to St Albans. (Image: Newsquest) "We have come a long way, we started with no electricity and now we're hosting book clubs and events.

"The restaurant is dog friendly, we have vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options as well, so I hope there is something everyone will enjoy."

The Owner likened the building to the Tardis from Doctor Who for its large interior.The Owner likened the dining hall to the Tardis from Doctor Who for its large interior. (Image: Newsquest)Thippawan is pleased to open her own spot after years of hard work, teaching cooking, serving on the market and creating pop-ups.

She launches the new eatery with a promise to "cook with passion" and offers dishes with fresh seasonal vegetables and meats, as well as traditional Thai herbs and spices.

The decor features Freecycle plants and items ready for the grand opening.The decor features Freecycle plants and items ready for the grand opening. (Image: Newsquest) Our reporter, Huw Richards provides an full tour on Facebook live below:

Huw was treated to vegetable spring rolls, fish cakes, prawn crackers and special fried rice accompanied by sweet chilli sauce.

Our reporter Huw Richards was welcomed with a taster of the new menu.Our reporter Huw Richards was welcomed with a taster of the new menu. (Image: Newsquest)An extended menu boasts a variety of dishes, including salads, noodles and soups.

As well as Thai food, they will serve elements of Korean and Japanese cuisine - all cooked fresh and to order.

Following the opening, Thiappwan hopes to introduce seasonal dishes, a two week set menu and a Christmas menu later this month.

The restaurant has space for 40-50 covers and is accepting bookings Tuesday to Sunday, 12pm to 3pm and 5pm to 9pm.

Book at https://www.salathaikitchen.co.uk/reservations or via telephone on 01727 812683 - takeaway remains available on Deliveroo, JustEat and UberEats.