'The best ever': Diners react to ‘awful news’ as Leeds restaurant Salvo’s closes suddenly
Diners have shared their shock after a long-standing Leeds restaurant announced its sudden closure.
In a statement posted on Thursday (January 29), Salvo’s announced it had closed the restaurant with immediate effect, following “an unexpected dispute with our landlord.”
Bookings have been cancelled until further notice, although the team added they hoped to find a solution to allow them to continue operating in Leeds.
A cornerstone of the Headingley community, Salvo’s is one of Leeds' best-loved restaurants, founded by Salvatore Dammone in 1976. It was later run by his sons, Gip and Dammone, who were awarded British Empire Medals (BEM) in the King's Birthday Honours for their services to hospitality.
The business was sold and came under new management in 2023, when Gip and Dammone retired.
Leeds diners have shared their memories of the restaurant and wished the team good luck as they searched for a solution.
One diner said: “That is very sad to read for all the staff who work tirelessly and are superb!! I really hope it gets sorted soon.”
Another added: “This is sad news indeed - you and all the staff must be devastated! Every time we’re in Leeds we visit your brilliant establishment - it’s simply the best Italian restaurant we’ve ever been to. We wish you all the best for the future and hope that you get this issue resolved.”
Many diners have been visiting the restaurant, which has served more than a million pizzas over the years, for decades.
One customer said: “That is really bad news, Salvo's was part of my life for 20 years. Good luck to all the current staff and management, hopefully it will be sorted out and Salvo's will open again, the best Italian ever.”
“Awful news,” another added. “I have been coming since this wonderful place first opened, hopefully things will be sorted out for you.”
Another diner said Salvo’s had been a family favourite since the late 1980s, and it was praised as an “institution” and “Leeds icon”.
“Save Salvo’s”, another regular customer said.
Customers have been asked not to book or visit the premises until further notice and those with existing reservations are informed that these have been cancelled.