Cafés and coffee shops get the most Google reviews with a review stand by the till, a quick word from whoever is serving, and a QR code on receipts or table cards for customers who sit in. Most café visits are short, so the ask has to fit into the few seconds when the customer is paying or waiting for their order. Reviews are worth the effort, because people searching "coffee near me" usually pick from the first few cafés on the map by rating.
Where customers have a spare moment
- Waiting for their order at the counter. This is often the best moment in a café, because people are standing still with their phone in their hand.
- Paying at the till. A stand right next to the card machine is hard to miss.
- Sitting at a table. A sticker on the table or a small table card with a QR code catches customers who stay a while.
Setting up a café
- Put a Google review stand beside the card machine.
- Add a sticker or QR code to each table if you have seating.
- Print your free Google review QR code at the bottom of receipts.
- Agree one short line the team can use when a regular says something nice, such as "That's kind of you. If you ever have a second, a Google review really helps us."
Don't link reviews to the loyalty card
It's tempting to give an extra stamp or a free coffee for a review, but Google doesn't allow any reward for reviews, however small. Keep your loyalty scheme and your review requests separate. Our article on Google's review rules explains what's allowed.
Your regulars are your best reviewers
Regular customers are usually happy to help an independent café they like, and many have simply never thought about leaving a review. Asking them once, in person, is often enough. Over a few weeks that alone can add a good number of reviews.
Photos sell coffee
People choosing a café look at photos of the food, the drinks and the space. Add your own photos to your Google Business Profile, and let customers know they're welcome to add a photo with their review if they'd like to.
Replying to reviews
Reply to reviews, especially ones that mention a particular drink, cake or member of staff. A short, friendly reply shows that real people run the place. For the occasional complaint about a long wait or a cold drink, apologise and say what you'll do about it. Our guide on how to respond to Google reviews has examples.
Common questions
Is a stand or a sticker better for a café counter?
A stand stands out more and can be moved around. A sticker takes no space and can't be knocked over. Many cafés use a stand by the till and stickers on tables.
Can I give a free coffee for a Google review?
No. Any reward for a review breaks Google's rules.
How do I get reviews from takeaway customers?
Ask while they wait for their order, and put a QR code on cup sleeves, bags or receipts so they can do it later.