The restaurant on Otley Road remained one of the city’s best-loved Italian eateries.

In a post on Facebook, Salvo’s said: “This morning, the landlord changed the locks and denied our team access to the premises.

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

It added: “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.”

The post on Facebook said the restaurant’s owners hoped to resolve the dispute as quickly as possible and reopen, but urged customers not to make a booking until further notice.