Reviews are one of the first things a hungry stranger reads about a restaurant. They also play a part in how local businesses show up in Google. This guide explains what is known, and what is not.
What Google says
Google has said that local results are based mainly on relevance, distance and prominence. Prominence reflects how well known a business is, and Google lists review count and score among the things that can affect it. Google’s own guidance also says that high-quality, positive reviews can improve a business’s visibility. That is a factor, not a guarantee. Nobody outside Google can promise a ranking.
Make it easy to leave a review
The most reliable thing you can do is remove friction. Many guests would happily leave a review but don’t know where to go. A direct link or QR code to your Google review page helps, so does asking politely at the end of a good visit.
What Google does not allow
- Offering money, discounts or free items in exchange for reviews.
- Asking only the guests you expect to be positive, or discouraging negative reviews.
- Writing reviews yourself, or having friends and staff do it.
- Posting reviews of your own business under another name.
Google can remove reviews that break its policies, and may take action against the business profile.
Reply to your reviews
You can reply to reviews through your Google Business Profile. A short, polite response to both good and bad reviews shows future guests how you treat people. Keep replies specific, and don’t share private details.
Keep your profile accurate
Opening hours, address, phone number, photos and your menu link should be current. A restaurant that looks active and accurate is easier to trust.
Where repUP fits
repUP Reviews makes it easier for guests to leave feedback and a Google review. It does not write reviews for guests or influence how Google ranks or displays them.