A pizzeria in Mentone, Melbourne, has gained significant attention online due to its owner’s humorous and bold responses to negative customer reviews. Ali Cengiz, the owner of Sunnyside Sliced, has taken a unique approach to customer feedback, choosing to engage directly with critics through witty retorts rather than traditional customer service tactics.
Cengiz, who lived in New York for a decade, opened his pizzeria after developing a passion for authentic New York-style pizza. Since its establishment in 2020, Sunnyside Sliced has drawn both loyal patrons and its fair share of detractors. Cengiz’s playful responses have sparked a mix of admiration and criticism from the Australian public, with some applauding his creativity while others deem it unprofessional.
In one instance, a dissatisfied customer described the pizza as “expensive” and criticized the flavor. Cengiz’s reply was a sharp “No more pizza for you! Lifetime ban,” showcasing his willingness to confront negative feedback head-on. Another customer complained about the service, stating, “I left them with my $9 (AUD) and walked away.” In response, Cengiz quipped, “I’ll pay you $9 (AUD) for every step you take away from our store.”
The reactions to Cengiz’s responses are varied. Some social media users find his sass entertaining, noting that it adds a layer of humor to the dining experience. “The sass makes me want to fly to Melbourne just for that pizza,” one fan commented. Conversely, others believe his replies come off as disrespectful and do not adequately address the customers’ concerns. “These customers have legitimate concerns, and the responses are disgusting,” said another critic.
Cengiz acknowledges the mixed reactions but stands firm in his belief that reviews should not devolve into personal attacks. “For me, the line is crossed when a review stops being about the experience and starts becoming personal, misleading, or unfairly damaging,” he explained. He emphasizes that he welcomes constructive criticism and prefers private channels for feedback, such as emails or direct conversations with management.
Despite the backlash, Cengiz insists on maintaining a light-hearted approach. “When I reply, I try to keep it light and not take myself too seriously,” he noted. His intention is to create an atmosphere where customers can express themselves without being hurtful. He has observed that some patrons feel entitled to be rude to his staff, which can adversely affect the young team members.
Cengiz’s journey into the pizza business is a testament to his love for the craft. He spent his early years working in a suburban pizzeria, an experience that, while formative, led him to pursue a decade-long career in finance in New York. However, his passion for pizza eventually compelled him to return to the industry, aiming to create not just a business but a community.
“Everyone I’ve crossed paths with has been incredibly kind,” Cengiz shared, reflecting on his experiences since opening the pizzeria. “It’s a journey worth sharing, one slice at a time.” Through his unconventional approach to customer feedback, Cengiz continues to draw attention to Sunnyside Sliced, reinforcing the idea that even negative experiences can be transformed into moments of connection and humor.
