A popular restaurant has shut its doors with immediate effect, to the dismay of its legions of loyal customers. A post on The Truffled Hog’s Instagram confirmed the sudden closure of its Dundas Street East branch in Saltburn, in Cleveland, which opened last summer and rapidly became a hit with locals and visitors alike.

Despite rave reviews and a loyal following, bosses admitted the venue “just hasn’t been the right fit for us commercially”. The announcement continued: “Running a small business, especially a restaurant, is very rewarding, but it also comes with its challenges. After a lot of thought, we’ve made the tough decision to close our Saltburn restaurant.”

Customers reacted with shock and disappointment online, with many praising the venue’s food and service. One wrote: “Gutted to hear this – best brunch I’ve had in Saltburn.”

Another said: “You’ll be sorely missed.” A third added: “Your team was so friendly, and the food was always amazing. Sad news for the town.”

The Saltburn site was one of four in the region run by the same team.

"Others are based in Stokesley – which remains open – and two new locations launched earlier this year at Danby Lodge and Sutton Bank, in partnership with the North York Moors National Park.

Explaining the decision to focus elsewhere, the post added: “Like many small businesses, we sometimes have to make hard choices so we can keep doing what we love – serving great food and good vibes.

“In the last six months we have also been given a great opportunity to partner with the North York Moors National Park, and now is the right time for us to focus our energy on our new locations.”

Some fans said they were already planning trips to the group’s remaining venues, while others expressed hope The Truffled Hog might one day return to Saltburn.

One commenter summed up the mood: “We’re devastated. Saltburn won’t be the same without you.”