Anyone who’s run a restaurant properly knows that it’s not an easy task. You’re spinning a hundred plates, literally and metaphorically. Staff calls in sick, a supplier messes up your delivery, your fryer breaks mid-service, and in the middle of all that, someone says:
“You should enter a restaurant award.”
Or worse:
“Your reviews don’t look great online.”
But still, deep down, you know reputation matters. You want people to talk about your place. You want them to come back. To tell their mates. You want the place to be full, not just on Fridays, but also midweek.
So, what actually helps more: a restaurant award, or great customer reviews?
Let’s find out.
Awards Feel Good, Because They Mean Something
When you win something like the Asian Restaurant and Takeaway Awards, what people call the Curry Oscars, it’s not just a shiny badge. It’s a moment. You remember why you got into this mad industry in the first place.
It says: “You’re doing something right.”
It’s not just for show either. Customers see that kind of award, and it holds meaning for them as well. It tells them they’re not just getting a decent curry, they’re getting one of the best.
An award provides a tangible asset to showcase on your website, menu, and delivery profile. It makes you stand out. And let’s be honest, it feels brilliant seeing your name in lights for once.
Reviews Keep You in Business
Now here’s the other side of it.
You could have a trophy cabinet full of awards, but if someone Googles you and sees a 3.9-star rating with complaints about cold food or rude staff, it’s a different story. That’s what they believe.
Customer reviews are the heartbeat of your business, especially now that everyone’s glued to their phones. They check your stars before they check your specials. They read what other people said. Sometimes they even judge you on the photos your customers upload (usually with terrible lighting).
It’s raw. It’s real. And it’s constant.
But when the reviews are good, when someone takes the time to write “That lamb bhuna was next-level”, you feel it. It keeps you going. It brings people in. And let’s be honest, it’s free marketing.
So, What Should You Focus On?
Honestly? Both. But differently.
Think of an award as your headline. It grabs attention. It tells people you’re not just any local. You’re one of the best.
But think of reviews as your reputation. They’re what people whisper about you when you’re not in the room. They’re what help someone decide between you and the other place two streets over.
The award gets them curious. The reviews seal the deal.
Here’s What You Can Do (Without Losing Your Mind)
Look, no one’s saying you need to become a full-time marketer. You’re already running a business. You’re already knackered. But here’s what can help, without making life harder:
- Apply for awards once a year. Block out a quiet Monday morning and go for it. You’ve got nothing to lose, and if you win, even better.
- Ask happy customers for reviews. Don’t overthink it. Just say, “Would you mind leaving us a quick review if you enjoyed your meal?” Most people are happy to.
- Stick your award everywhere. Window, website, menus, social posts. Be proud of it. You earned it.
- Respond to reviews, like a human. Thank the nice ones. Be kind to the bad ones. You don’t need to argue, just show people you care.
No one expects you to be perfect. They just want to see that you’re real.
The Truth? You’ve Already Done the Hard Bit
You’re feeding people. You’re creating a place that families come back to, where mates meet up, where people order from when they’ve had a rough day.
That’s the bit that matters most.
The award is a cherry on top.
The reviews help others find you.
But the heart of it all? That’s you. The food. The graft. The care.
So don’t stress about it too much. Just keep doing what you’re doing, with heart. Let the rest follow naturally.
FAQs
- Do you need to win an award for it to matter?
Not at all. Even a nomination or being shortlisted gives you something to shout about. Customers love hearing you’ve been recognised. - How do I ask for reviews without sounding desperate?
Be honest. “Glad you enjoyed it, if you’ve got a sec, a quick review on Google would mean a lot.” Most people get it. They want to help.
3. Got a bad review, now what?
Take a breath. Reply with kindness. Even if they’re out of line, others will read your reply and see your professionalism. That counts for more than you think.
