A Bradford city centre restaurant has closed suddenly – leading to disappointed customers being turned away.

Buffet @ Bradford operates out of the Hilton hotel on Hall Ings, but is run independently by PG Catering Limited, based in Leeds.

There was a security presence outside the restaurant yesterday on behalf of the hotel, which is the landlord.

Those who had turned up expecting to eat lunch at the restaurant had to make alternative arrangements.

A letter from Hilton Worldwide, displayed in the restaurant’s window, said: “Buffet @ Bradford is not open for customer appointments. It is our understanding that it will not be opening again in the future. We can only apologise for the inconvenience caused.

“Buffet @ Bradford is an independent business that operates out of the Hilton Bradford and unfortunately their business operation is not within our control.”

The letter then provided an address for PG Catering in Leeds, allowing customers to contact the business directly with any queries.

A spokesman for the Hilton Worldwide group subsequently told the T&A: “Hilton Bradford can confirm it has terminated the leasing of an area of its property to Buffet @ Bradford with immediate effect. The reasons behind the termination of the lease are confidential.”

It is understood that Hilton Worldwide have terminated the lease for non-payment of rent over a period of more than a year, with locks being changed to deny access to the premises.

Jimmy Gee Wah Chan, speaking on behalf of PG Catering, said that the firm had no comment to make and stated the matter was being dealt with by solicitors.

He added that they would make a further statement once the matter was resolved.

The restaurant opened in December 2009 and has proved popular given its central location and fixed-price fusion buffet menu. It is described on the ‘visitbradford’ website as “a unique eating experience and great value for money.”