A Japanese ramen shop has come under fire after its owner allegedly threatened to “beat up” customers who left negative reviews. The incident involved TOYOJIRO, a Jiro-style ramen restaurant.
Diners Posted Negative Reviews
The controversy began when two diners visited TOYOJIRO and later posted negative reviews online, criticizing the food and service.
While critical feedback is common, the restaurant’s response was anything but ordinary.
Escalating Threats on Social Media
Instead of addressing the criticism professionally, the owner took to their Instagram, @/toyojiro.toyota with a menacing message.
According to Dexerto, he suggested that the reviewers were “a bit weird” and implied they shouldn’t dine out if they didn’t want to get into trouble.
He warned that if they interfered with his business, he would interfere with theirs, adding that they could “get screwed” and that he was ready to deal with them directly.
“If You Write a Stupid Review, We’ll Find You. We’ll Beat You Up.”
In addition, they also allegedly posted:
“If you write a stupid review, we’ll find you. We’ll beat you up.”
Photos Shared and Cash Reward Offered
They took the issue further by publishing photos of the customers on social media. The post has since been deleted.
In addition, the restaurant offered a cash reward of 100,000 yen (about S$900) to anyone who could provide information about the reviewers’ identities or whereabouts.
The shop’s Instagram story indicated that the so-called “manhunt” will continue until the reviewers return to the restaurant, dine again, and post a positive review with a photo.
Disturbing Ultimatum to Reviewers
The owner made his demands unmistakably clear.
“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. This kid is so scared. I’ll really do it, so he’d better just come back and eat.”
The threats not only targeted the reviewers but also hinted at potential harm to their families if the demands were not met.
Owner Cites Business Expansion as Justification
The shop owner defended his extreme actions by claiming he was serious about protecting TOYOJIRO’s reputation as the business considered expanding into Asia and the U.S.
Public Reaction
The incident gained significant attention on X, with a post about the situation amassing over 35.8 million views.
Many expressed shock at the owner’s extreme response, with some vowing to avoid the restaurant due to its dangerous and unprofessional behavior.
Owner Apologized After Backlash
According to the New York Post, the owner eventually apologized after facing heavy criticism for his aggressive online comments.
He admitted he might have taken things too far, was reflecting on his actions, and hoping to move forward with a better attitude. The restaurant also put out Instagram posts, saying it regretted the whole incident.
The caption reads: Regarding the matter that has caused a stir, our team has discussed it and reached a conclusion. We have provided an update via Instagram Story Archives. We understand that opinions may be divided, but we deeply reflect on any excessive actions taken. Moving forward, we will continue to reflect and strive to improve. Thank you for your understanding.
It acknowledged that the situation had cast a negative light on the business and promised to do better.
The restaurant shared its hope to rebuild trust and become a place that truly connects with customers from around the world.
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