Opening a restaurant each day requires careful preparation to ensure a clean, organized, and welcoming environment. A thorough restaurant opening checklist helps your team get ready for a successful service, maintain consistency, and provide an exceptional dining experience for customers. Here’s a detailed checklist tailored for restaurants.
1. Pre-Shift Preparation (Before Arriving)
Checklist:
- [ ] Review the shift schedule and confirm staff attendance.
- [ ] Check for any updates from management or changes to the menu.
- [ ] Bring any necessary items, such as keys, passwords, and paperwork (e.g., inventory reports).
- [ ] Verify any reservations or special events scheduled for the day.
2. Security and Entry
Checklist:
- [ ] Unlock the restaurant doors and disable the alarm system.
- [ ] Inspect the premises (inside and outside) for any signs of damage or tampering.
- [ ] Turn on security cameras and verify they are functioning.
- [ ] Ensure emergency exits are unobstructed and functional.
3. Turn on Equipment and Utilities?
Checklist:
- [ ] Turn on all kitchen equipment (e.g., ovens, fryers, grills) and ensure they are in proper working condition.
- [ ] Start refrigeration units and check that all freezers, refrigerators, and cold storage units are at the correct temperatures.
- Cold Storage Temperature Goals: Below 40°F (4°C) for refrigerators and 0°F (-18°C) for freezers.
- [ ] Power up POS systems, printers, and other front-of-house technology.
- [ ] Turn on lights, fans, and HVAC systems to ensure customer comfort.
4. Cleaning and Sanitization
Checklist:
- Dining Area:
- [ ] Wipe down tables, chairs, and booths.
- [ ] Vacuum or mop floors.
- [ ] Clean glass doors, windows, and mirrors to remove smudges.
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[ ] Ensure salt, pepper, and condiment dispensers are clean and filled.
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Kitchen:
- [ ] Sanitize prep areas, cutting boards, and countertops.
- [ ] Check that all knives and utensils are cleaned and properly stored.
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[ ] Clean sinks, ensure dishwashers are operational, and stock detergent.
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Restrooms:
- [ ] Clean and sanitize toilets, sinks, and mirrors.
- [ ] Refill soap dispensers, toilet paper, and paper towels.
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[ ] Empty trash bins.
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[ ] Set up trash bins in kitchen and dining areas with clean liners.
5. Inventory Check and Restocking
Checklist:
- [ ] Conduct a quick inventory check of essential ingredients.
- Perishables: Verify that fruits, vegetables, and proteins are fresh.
- Dry Goods: Ensure there’s an adequate supply of rice, pasta, flour, and spices.
- [ ] Restock cooking stations with required ingredients (e.g., sauces, seasonings).
- [ ] Refill front-of-house items:
- Menus, napkins, cutlery, glassware, and plates.
- [ ] Prepare beverages:
- Restock sodas, juices, alcoholic beverages, coffee, and tea supplies.
- [ ] Confirm that takeout supplies (e.g., boxes, bags, utensils) are stocked.
6. Menu and Specials Check
Checklist:
- [ ] Review the day’s menu for any updates or changes.
- [ ] Confirm that all specials and promotions are prepared and ready to advertise.
- [ ] Verify pricing accuracy in the POS system and printed menus.
- [ ] Communicate any 86’d items (out-of-stock dishes) to the staff.
7. Food Preparation
Checklist:
- [ ] Begin prepping ingredients for the day’s service:
- Chop vegetables, marinate proteins, prepare doughs, etc.
- [ ] Refill and organize mise en place (prepped items for cooking).
- [ ] Check that sauces, dressings, and pre-cooked items are ready.
- [ ] Ensure all food prep adheres to food safety standards (e.g., proper handwashing, glove use).
8. Staff Preparation?????
Checklist:
9. Front-of-House Setup
Checklist:
- [ ] Set up the host stand:
- Ensure reservation lists are accurate.
- Stock pens, order pads, and guest checkbooks.
- [ ] Check that table settings are complete (napkins, cutlery, glasses).
- [ ] Organize the bar area:
- Refill garnishes, stock liquor, clean glassware, and prepare mixers.
- [ ] Turn on background music at a suitable volume.
10. Marketing and Promotions
Checklist:
- [ ] Set up any promotional signage (e.g., happy hour specials, discounts).
- [ ] Update your daily specials board.
- [ ] Post on social media platforms (e.g., Instagram, Facebook) to highlight specials or events.
- Example: “Today’s special: Grilled Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce? – Don’t miss out!”
- [ ] Ensure all flyers, loyalty cards, or promotional materials are available near the entrance.
11. Final Walkthrough
Checklist:
- [ ] Walk through the entire restaurant and check for:
- Cleanliness.
- Proper table setups.
- Fully stocked areas (e.g., bar, kitchen stations).
- [ ] Test all equipment one last time.
- [ ] Ensure all staff members are in their assigned positions.
12. Unlock and Open Doors
Checklist:
- [ ] Place an "Open" sign outside the restaurant.
- [ ] Unlock doors and prepare the host stand for welcoming guests.
- [ ] Have staff members stationed (e.g., host, servers, bartenders).
- [ ] Greet your first customers with a smile!
Daily Maintenance Tasks (During Service)
- Monitor Inventory: Restock items during downtime if supplies are low.
- Maintain Cleanliness: Wipe down tables, check restrooms, and clear away empty plates regularly.
- Customer Service: Greet every guest, check in during meals, and address complaints promptly.
Restaurant Opening Checklist Summary
| Category | Tasks |
|----------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Pre-Shift Preparation | Review schedules, reservations, and updates. |
| Security and Entry | Unlock doors, check alarms, and inspect the premises. |
| Equipment Setup | Power up kitchen appliances, POS systems, and lighting. |
| Cleaning | Sanitize kitchen, dining areas, and restrooms. |
| Inventory Restocking | Refill ingredients, beverages, and table settings. |
| Menu Check | Confirm daily specials, 86’d items, and pricing. |
| Food Prep | Chop, marinate, and organize mise en place. |
| Staff Preparation | Conduct pre-shift meetings and assign roles. |
| Front-of-House Setup | Organize host stand, bar, and tables; set ambiance with music. |
| Marketing | Update specials boards, signage, and social media. |
| Final Walkthrough | Inspect the restaurant for readiness. |
| Open for Business | Unlock doors and welcome customers. |
Pro Tips for a Smooth Opening
- Digital Checklist: Use tools like Google Sheets, Trello, or Notion to track daily tasks.
- Assign Roles: Delegate checklist tasks to specific staff members for efficiency.
- Regular Training: Incorporate opening procedures into staff training to reinforce consistency.
- Feedback Loop: Update the checklist based on team feedback and new business needs.
This Restaurant Opening Checklist ensures a well-organized and successful start to your service day, creating a great experience for both your team and customers.