A five-star average is not enough information on its own. Useful reviews explain what was purchased, when the visit happened, what the business did well or badly and how any problem was handled.
Look for detail and recency
Recent reviews with specific service details are more useful than vague praise. A mix of ratings can also be more credible than a suspiciously perfect pattern.
Separate editor scores from user scores
On Al Ubaidiya we do not create a star rating for a local business and then mark it up as if customers supplied it. Aggregate ratings only appear when genuine users submit reviews that are approved after moderation.
Know the commercial relationship
If a business advertises with, is owned by or is otherwise affiliated with the publisher, that should be disclosed. Readers can then judge the recommendation with the right context.