AN iconic restaurant in Southend has been put on the market.

Pavarotti, on the corner of Hamlet Court Road, Westcliff has been run by Pavlos Kritikos since 2011.

The Cypriot took it over but the Italian restaurant is now on the market for £125,000.

Councillor Ann Holland said: “The opera theme is unique and I’m sure Pavarotti has a good following, so its very sad to hear they’re up for sale.

“Hopefully, something good will replace the restaurant.

“Pavarotti wasn’t just a run of the mill restaurant - it was well established, as it has been there for a number of years and was independently owned.

“It was something special and its a shame to see it go.”

Abbie Horton, who posted a review of Pavarotti on their Facebook page, described the hosts as “the most attentiveness and friendly you’ll ever find”.

She praised the “lovely atmosphere and music” and the “beautiful opulent decor”.

She added: “We found Pavarotti’s ideal venue to eat at before a show at the Cliffs.”

However the future of the building, erected in 1901, is now in doubt.

It started as The Capital and Counties Bank Ltd, and in 1929 became the Lloyds Bank. In 1993 it was first transformed into a restaurant and retains many of its original features including the high ceilings and basement vault.

True to its operatic theme, the restaurant boasted opulent chandeliers, and oil paintings, and specialised in afternoon teas as well as fine dining.

The tenure is leasehold, granted from June 2009, and rent is £20,000 per annum.

Mr Kritikos declined to comment on the reasons for the sale.

The restaurant was also known for its innovative and popular community events, such as the Three Tenors Black Tie and Diamond evening, a jazz evening, and most recently a drag queen show held last Saturday.