AITAH for Leaving a Negative Review After Poor Service at a Friend’s Business?

We’ve all been there—expecting great service from a friend’s business, only to be disappointed. But what happens when you call them out on it? Was I the AH for leaving a negative review?

The Backstory First

My friend, let’s call her Sarah, opened a small café six months ago. I’ve been supportive from day one—attending the launch, promoting her on social media, and even bringing friends over. Last week, I visited with two coworkers for lunch, expecting the usual warm service. Instead, it was a disaster.

The issues? Cold food, a 40-minute wait despite an empty café, and Sarah brushing off my concerns with a laugh. I paid full price, left no tip, and debated whether to say anything at all.

Why I Left the Review

I’m all for supporting friends, but professionalism matters. That afternoon, I left a 3-star Google review, detailing the experience without naming Sarah personally. I wrote: “Great potential, but the service and food quality didn’t match the price. Hoping for improvements!”

Within hours, Sarah texted me: “Wow, thanks for the public humiliation. A real friend would’ve talked to me first.” Was she right? Should I have handled it privately?

The Friendship Fallout

Sarah hasn’t spoken to me since. Mutual friends are split—some say I was justified, others argue I betrayed her trust. One even said, “You know how hard she’s working! Cut her slack.”

But here’s the thing: should friendship excuse poor service? If I hadn’t known her, I’d have left a 1-star review. I tempered my criticism because of our relationship.

The Ethics of Honesty

Online reviews help businesses grow—when they’re honest. Had I stayed silent, Sarah might never realize how her café is perceived. But was a public review the right medium?

Some argue I should’ve messaged her privately. Others say public feedback holds businesses accountable. Where’s the line between supporting a friend and protecting consumers?

How Others Handled It

I polled Reddit and found mixed responses:

• “NTA. Friends don’t let friends fail blindly.”
• “YTA. You embarrassed her instead of helping.”
• “Compromise: Edit the review after she fixes the issues.”

One user shared, “I told my brother his burger joint was overpriced. He hated me for a month—then doubled his sales after lowering prices.”

What I’d Do Differently

In hindsight, I’d message Sarah first with my concerns. If nothing changed, then a review would be fair. But in the moment, frustration took over.

Still, I stand by the principle: if you take money, deliver quality. Friendship shouldn’t mean silence when standards drop.

Your Turn to Judge

Was I the AH for leaving an honest but negative review? Should friends get special treatment, or is tough love the best support? Drop your verdict in the comments!

P.S. If you’ve faced this dilemma, share your story below. Let’s debate where loyalty ends and honesty begins.