Caplansky's Deli, the popular Jewish deli on College Street since 2007, was shut down overnight between Monday and Tuesday.

Owner Zane Caplansky said he went down to the deli at midnight on Monday to investigate an alarm when he discovered bailiff notes on the door and a locksmith changing the locks.

"This is a total surprise. I had no notice of any problems with the landlord recently," said Caplansky. "I am beyond livid. I pay my rent every month on time."

S. Wilson & Co. Bailiffs wrote in a notice that Caplansky's lease had been terminated and the building the deli occupied had been repossessed by the landlord. This was due to a violation of the lease, pertaining to "failing to effect repairs not authorized by the landlord."

"We are fighting this outrageous action," said Caplansky. "I don't know what repairs I effected without his authority."

He said 55 people are employed by the restaurant, and more than $100,000 in food is currently in the restaurant.

Caplansky had just announced plans to expand, and opened up another location of his namesake deli in Yorkville. "We're a growing business," he said. "This is very damaging. For guests who pull up and want to come eat at the restaurant, what do they think when they see this notice on the door? This is a nightmare."

The bailiff could not comment on the case.

Caplansky did admit there were issues with his landlord in January, but he believed those to be resolved. Lawyers for Caplansky and his landlord have been in contact.

The situation, according to Caplansky, is headed for court.

"I won't stand for it. I want to be heard. I want my day in court," he said.

Caplansky said he did not make any repairs or renovations recently, and was not aware of anything else the landlord wants done.

"My concern is for my staff and for their families and livelihoods. I would be really heartbroken if any of them felt they had to get a job somewhere else," he said. "I feel a real responsibility for them."