A much-loved Yorkshire culinary institution has announced it is closing with ‘immediate effect’ due to a dispute with its landlord.

A statement posted on Salvo’s Facebook page said the landlord changed the locks this morning (Jan 29) meaning its staff members could not access the building to begin their work.

However, it may not be the end of the road for the legendary restaurant, which first opened in Headingley in 1976, as it said it hopes to resolve the issue and continue serving customers again.

It was set up by Salvatore Dammone, who hoped to bring the food from his beloved homeland of Italy to Leeds.

The restaurant has been featued in the Good Food Guide every year since 1984, and current has been given an AA rosette for its culinary excellence.

A statement posted on the restaurants Instagram page said: “To our dearest customers, friends, and supporters, It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we must share some devastating news.

“Due to an unexpected dispute with our landlord, we have been forced to close our doors effective immediately. This morning, the landlord changed the locks and denied our team access to the premises.

John Dannone and his father Salvo outside Salvo's restaurant, Headingley, Leeds, in 1983 | YPN

placeholder image — John Dannone and his father Salvo outside Salvo's restaurant, Headingley, Leeds, in 1983 | YPN

“This means we are, with immediate effect, unable to honor any existing bookings, provide table service, or welcome you for the dining experience we love to create.

“We want to be unequivocally clear: We have always met our obligations, including rent and all bills.

“Our dedicated team has worked tirelessly, not just to serve exceptional food, but to build a community within our walls. Through the immense challenges of the hospitality economy, we fought to stay afloat, committed to our staff, our suppliers, and most of all, to you.

“Our hope now is to resolve this matter as quickly as possible. We remain committed to our dream and to serving you again.

“Therefore, we must urgently ask that you do not book or visit the premises until further notice.

“All existing reservations are, with our deepest apologies, cancelled, until further notice. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your incredible support, your laughter that filled our dining room, and your loyalty.

“It has been our greatest honor to serve you.”