DINERS have reacted with shock after one of Oxford's best-loved restaurants was temporarily shut down due to hygiene concerns.

Evidence of rats and cockroaches were found at Sojo in Hythe Bridge Street forcing Oxford City Council officers to apply for an emergency closure. 

READ AGAIN: Sojo closed after customer found cockroach in meal

The restaurant has now reopened after another inspection found risks to health had been dealt with but the news has put many off their lunch.

We asked readers whether they would go back to Sojo - POLL RESULTS HERE

Sojo - a favourite of many Oxford diners for years - has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 from 574 reviews on Trip Advisor. 

It is ranked number 65 out of 507 eateries listed in the city.

WHAT'S THE BEST? Oxford's top ten favourite restaurants 

However, some recent reviewers have reacted in horror to the revelations about hygiene problems.

One Tripadvisor reviewer, LouG1, from London said they had had 'a lucky escape' after they tried to visit on Sunday, only to find the place shut with a notice stuck on the door by environmental health. 

Oxford Mail:

Another one star review by Maurice J said he felt 'badly let down' after his group's booking was cancelled with less than 24 hours notice last weekend due to the problems.

On Facebook, Emily Burkitt said it was her 'worst nightmare' while Amy Wood said she was 'gutted' because she loves the place. 

Rat droppings and urine were found in the kitchen of the well-reviewed restaurant and there were thick accumulations of grease and dirt, allowing pests to breed.

No one at Sojo was available to comment when the Oxford Mail called this afternoon but the city council has said it is satisfied with the hygiene improvements made.  

Some diners have pledged to keep going to the eatery despite the concerns. 

OUR REVIEWS OF SOJO

'Sojo has still got it' - June 2017

'Sojo is ab fab' - October 2013

Oxford Mail:

Commenting on the Oxford Mail's story, reader 'CowleyMarsh' said they were still planning a trip this weekend.

They wrote: "A great restaurant. Everyone has problems sometimes and it has been swiftly rectified.

"I have booked to go there for lunch on Sunday with friends after reassurance from the City Council that all is now fine. I'll post a review afterwards."

'Cigarman' suggested kitchen tours should be offered by restaurants before diners choose where to eat but said he was confident Sojo had sorted out the problems. 

He wrote: "Sojo however, closed quickly, responded and are open again. I have been going there a long time and enjoyed every meal. Fully intend to return soon for more of their great grub."