When you’re running a bar, the ultimate goal is to deliver an exceptional customer experience. Bar checklists are a reliable tool for making sure that behind-the-scenes work is done consistently, from keeping track of inventory to maintaining cleanliness and serving up delicious cocktails.
Whether you’re managing a bustling nightclub or a cozy neighborhood bar, staying organized is the key to smooth operations. The 12 bar checklists below cover a wide range of tasks, including opening and closing procedures and maintaining bar equipment, so you’ll have everything you need to make your business much more efficient.
Free downloadable bar checklists
All of these bar checklists are editable. You can download them as PDFs or use them as digital forms with collaboration features:
Bar checklist
This bar checklist gives you a structured overview of key areas of your bar operations. It lists down tasks for opening, mid-shift, and closing. You can use it to monitor stock levels, confirm that equipment is functioning properly, and maintain compliance with health and safety regulations. Feel free to edit any of the sections to add tasks that are unique to your bar. With this checklist, you can remain consistent, prevent mistakes, and boost overall efficiency.Bar cleaning checklist
Maintaining cleanliness is fundamental for both the hygiene and the ambiance of your bar. The bar cleaning checklist is designed to guide your staff through daily cleaning tasks. It ensures that every surface is wiped down, equipment is sanitized, and the environment is welcoming for customers. Tasks are broken down into manageable steps, from cleaning glassware and counters to restocking paper towels and soap. You can easily customize the checklist based on your bar’s cleanliness standards so your bar will always be in top shape.Bar deep cleaning checklist
Doing deep cleaning regularly allows your bar to maintain long-term hygiene and can even prevent equipment failures. The bar deep cleaning checklist covers important areas that need extra attention, with tasks like scrubbing floors, cleaning behind appliances, and sanitizing kitchen equipment. It allows you to adjust the questions based on your bar’s layout and needs. This checklist is especially useful for weekly or monthly deep cleaning sessions.Bar closing checklist
Closing a bar goes beyond locking the doors—it’s about making sure that everything is ready for the next day’s operations. With the bar closing checklist, your team can follow a structured guide for completing all end-of-day tasks efficiently. This includes counting the cash register, securing alcohol, cleaning the bar area, and checking that the lights and appliances are turned off. You can edit the checklist to include specific tasks from your bar’s closing routine, covering all details.Bar opening checklist
The start of each day sets the tone for the rest of the shift, and a well-executed opening is crucial for success. Use this bar opening checklist to go through all essential tasks before the doors open, such as inspecting equipment, restocking supplies, and prepping the bar area. This checklist is designed to be easily customizable, allowing you to tailor the tasks to your morning routine. It guarantees that your staff is well-prepared for the day ahead, setting the foundation for smooth service and happy customers.Bartender bar checklist template
Managing a busy bar requires constant focus, and the bartender bar checklist is a key tool for making sure that every shift can run like clockwork. From preparing garnishes to checking that all equipment is in working order, this template helps bartenders to stay on top of their tasks. It addresses tasks like setting up the bar before customers arrive, ensuring the cleanliness of workstations, and restocking essential items like glasses, napkins, and garnishes. You can customize this checklist to suit the demands of your bar’s layout and menu.Daily bar checklist template
This daily bar checklist template aids your team in completing essential tasks regularly. This checklist addresses cleaning, maintenance, inventory checks, safety protocols, and more, so your bar will always be ready to serve customers. It encourages thoroughness, listing down repeatable tasks and making it clear what hasn’t been done yet. To customize it, include any extra tasks done at your bar, whether related to opening, closing, or peak hours.Fully stocked bar checklist
Running out of main ingredients is a stressful situation that can disrupt service and frustrate customers. This fully stocked bar checklist supports you in maintaining inventory levels, ensuring that all bar essentials—like liquor, mixers, garnishes, glassware, and cleaning supplies—are on hand. Designed for tracking stock levels, this checklist can be adjusted to your bar’s specific menu. This way, you won’t run out of ingredients needed to craft the perfect cocktail. With this checklist, you can easily monitor low-stock items and make timely orders, avoiding last-minute shortages.Bar equipment checklist
Use this bar equipment checklist to verify that all machines and tools—such as refrigerators, ice machines, blenders, and glass washers—are regularly inspected and maintained. It allows you to keep track of routine maintenance tasks, resulting in equipment that’s clean, safe, and working properly. You can customize it by adding specific instructions for checking or calibrating equipment based on manufacturer recommendations. Implement this checklist to boost long-term reliability and avoid unexpected breakdowns during busy hours.Bar staff training checklist
Effective training is essential for a successful bar, and this bar staff training checklist helps ensure that all new employees are thoroughly trained on both service and operational procedures. This checklist reminds you to familiarize staff with the bar’s layout and menu and teach them how to handle equipment, prepare drinks, and follow safety protocols. Feel free to edit the checklist to focus on specific training priorities, whether it’s customer service, compliance with health regulations, or mastering complex cocktail recipes.Mobile bar checklist
Running a mobile bar has unique challenges, like transporting equipment and working within a limited space. With this mobile bar checklist, you can verify that all essential items—such as bar tools, liquor, ice, mixers, and glassware—are accounted for and ready for each event. It also includes tasks like setting up the mobile bar area, maintaining compliance with health and safety regulations, and checking power sources for equipment. This checklist is fully customizable, allowing you to adjust it based on the size of your mobile setup and the event.Bar manager checklist
Bar managers oversee everything from daily operations to long-term planning, and the bar manager checklist checklist can streamline these responsibilities. It covers important tasks such as scheduling staff, monitoring inventory, complying with health and safety protocols, and managing customer service. Additionally, you’ll also find reminders for tracking sales, budgeting, and ordering supplies. Tailor this checklist to fit the goals and priorities of your bar so that managers can stay on top of daily tasks while focusing on improving business performance.
How to create a bar checklist in Lumiform
To create your own bar checklist, select any of the templates above then use the app’s drag-and-drop form builder to customize it to your needs. You can add different types of inputs, such as number fields for noting inventory counts, multiple-choice questions, text fields for notes, or even photo uploads. The form also includes conditional logic, where specific questions only show up based on user responses.
Once the form is ready, use role assignment to designate tasks to different team members, such as stocking inventory or checking equipment. This way, everyone knows their responsibilities from the start of their shift.
Finally, the app’s data tracking ensures all tasks are documented properly. The data collected can then be analyzed to identify patterns, trends, and areas for improvement, with instantly generated reports.
All in all, these features help your team stay accountable and manage the bar more efficiently, even during peak times.