Ramen Shop Offers Bounty for Negative Reviewers After One-Star Ratings: ‘Something Straight Out of an Anime’

Ramen Shop in Kyoto Takes Unusual Approach to Negative Reviews

If you think of ramen shops as laid-back havens for noodle enthusiasts, think again. A ramen restaurant in Kyoto, Japan, recently stirred controversy by issuing a bounty on customers who posted negative one-star reviews.

A Shocking Response to Criticism

Rahmen TOYOJIRO (とよ二郎) generally boasts a plethora of positive feedback from its patrons. The establishment’s Google Reviews display numerous satisfied diners enjoying delicious bowls of ramen. However, like many successful restaurants, it has not escaped the inevitable occurrence of critical reviews.

As reported by Complex, the owner of Rajmen TOYOJIRO reacted with extraordinary hostility towards two customers who shared their dissatisfaction. In a surprising and extreme measure, he publicly advertised a bounty of 100, 000 yen (approximately $662) on social media for any information regarding the identities of the critical diners.

“We try not to treat people like you as customers, so it’s fine. But you should probably avoid eating out. Someday, someone like you will get screwed. I don’t care — just come directly, and I’ll deal with you.”

Social Media Reactions

Reactions on social media were swift and incredulous. One user on X, @luciandavid33, expressed disbelief by saying, “This sounds like something straight out of an anime.” Indeed, the incident bears a striking resemblance to extreme storylines found in popular Japanese culture.

Screenshot of a social media post by @luciandavid33

Threatening Statements from the Owner

Furthermore, the owner’s remarks grew increasingly threatening. He claimed, “We run a planned business, so if you get in our way, we’ll get in the way of yours too.[…] The only thing he can do is come back, eat again, and write a good review with a photo. I told him I won’t forgive him otherwise — not even for the safety of his family. If he does that, he’ll be killed right away.”

Reputation Management Gone Awry

The question arises: why would a restaurant owner respond in such an extreme manner? While defending one’s business reputation is important, this behavior only serves to tarnish it further. Following the uproar, the restaurant issued an apology, acknowledging the owner’s rash comments and assuring the public that they would strive to handle customer concerns with greater professionalism in the future.

Ultimately, the owner’s aggressive actions likely undermined the restaurant’s standing more significantly than any negative review could. A touch of humility and grace could have proven far more beneficial in restoring customer trust.

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