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Bar opening checklist

Bar opening checklist

This checklist can be used by staff and duty managers as a guide to following the correct procedures before opening a bar. It helps ensure that no important bar opening task is forgotten by staff.

Use this template
or download pdf
Bar opening checklist

This checklist can be used by staff and duty managers as a guide to following the correct procedures before opening a bar. It helps ensure that no important bar opening task is forgotten by staff.

Use this template
or download pdf

About the Bar opening checklist

Opening a bar properly sets the stage for a successful shift, and this bar opening checklist helps ensure everything runs smoothly from the start. Whether it’s preparing garnishes, stocking the bar, or checking equipment, this checklist streamlines your opening tasks so your bar is ready for the day’s service. By using this customizable template, you can efficiently delegate tasks, improve workflow, and maintain consistency throughout your operations.

How to use the bar opening checklist

Here’s step-by-step guide for setting up the checklist and getting the most out of it each day:

  1. Customize the checklist to fit your bar’s needs. Open the template in Lumiform’s app and tailor the tasks based on your bar’s layout, products, and operational flow. This might include adding specific details like garnishes to prep or equipment checks unique to your setup.
  2. Assign roles and tasks for each team member. Use Lumiform’s role assignment feature to delegate specific tasks to your bartenders and staff. This way, everyone knows their responsibilities and can check off their completed items in real time, minimizing any confusion.
  3. Check stock and equipment at each station. Make sure that all equipment is functioning properly and stocked items, such as glassware and liquor, are in place. This is a critical step to prevent delays during service, allowing your staff to serve customers efficiently.
  4. Track progress and completion in real time. As your team goes through the checklist, Lumiform allows you to track task completion on mobile devices as well. Managers can easily monitor which tasks have been done, making it easier to address any missed steps before service starts.
  5. Review the checklist and make updates as needed. After a few uses, assess how well the checklist works for your bar. Make necessary adjustments, like adding or removing tasks, to improve your workflow and ensure a seamless opening process every day.

Tips for customizing your bar opening checklist

Make the bar opening checklist work for your own bar operations by tailoring it based on your needs.

First, add specific equipment checks based on your setup. For example, if you use frozen drink machines or specialty blenders, include steps like checking for proper assembly, testing functionality, and verifying cleanliness before opening.

Consider your cocktail menu as well. Adding steps for cocktail prep can greatly improve your workflow. If you have a variety of signature drinks, such as house-made syrups or freshly squeezed juices, include these as specific tasks.

Edit the stock inventory section based on your bar’s product range. If you specialize in craft beers or premium wines, adjust the checklist to account for different types of stock that need to be checked or restocked daily. For example, you might prioritize checking kegs and wine coolers over bottled beer.

Download Lumiform’s bar opening checklist for a seamless routine

Set your bar up for success by using this bar opening checklist. Whether you want to streamline tasks or assign responsibilities, this template adapts to your needs. Use it to organize daily prep, check stock levels, and ensure your equipment is ready before service. With this customizable tool, you won’t miss important steps, keeping your team focused and efficient from the start.

Related categories

  • Operational excellence templates
  • Hospitality templates
  • Cleaning templates
  • Food safety templates
  • Templates for business processes
Preview of the template
Inspection
Opening
Unlock beer & wine coolers & taps
Place floor mats behind bar
Place liners in trash cans and position appropriately
Stock & ice down bottle beer & wine
Cut lemon wheels, wedges and twists, lime wedges, orange wheels and celery
Make garnish skewers
Make sweet & sour, juices, bloody mary mix, pina mix and other mixers
Setup margarita rim salter at each service well
Assemble, fill & start frozen drink machine
Stock straws, cocktail napkins, stir-straws, coasters, skewers, etc. at each service well
Stock rocks glasses, highballs, pilsners, wine glasses, snifters, coffee mugs
Setup blenders & mixers at each service well
Stock bar utensils & supplies (strainer, shaker, jigger, ice scoop, ice cream scoop, wine opener, bottle opener, stirrer, bar mats, pour spouts, etc.)
Ice down and stock garnish caddy with cocktail onions, olives, cut lemons, limes and oranges, twists, and cherries at each service well
Fill ice bins at each service well
Check liquor, beer and wine backups for each service well and back bar
Stock silverware (rollups)
Stock plateware & linen napkins
Stock bar and food menus
Fill bar sink with soap water, rinse and sanitizer
Have back-up beverage canisters and CO2 tanks ready to replace empties
Turn on music, bar TV, etc.
Turn on neon lights and signs
Check if plates and glasses are clean
Check if tables, bathrooms, and bar floor is clean
Get and count opening bar bank
Get new comp & waste log
Name and Signature of Duty Manager
This template was downloaded 21 times

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Related resources

Access a complete set of resources aimed at maximizing safety, quality, and operational excellence, including detailed guides, related templates, and real-world use cases.

Topic guides

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Frequently asked questions

What is the bar opening procedure?

The bar opening procedure involves several key tasks that prepare the bar for service. This includes cleaning the bar area, checking and restocking inventory, prepping garnishes, setting up equipment like blenders and taps, and organizing bar tools. By following a detailed checklist, you can streamline the opening routine and minimize delays once customers arrive.

What are some key tasks that might be overlooked when opening a bar?

Commonly overlooked tasks include checking the cleanliness of glassware, ensuring that ice bins are fully stocked, and testing bar equipment like soda guns or frozen drink machines. It’s also easy to forget to prep garnishes in advance or to double-check that backups of essential stock like liquor or mixers are available and accessible.

How often should I rotate stock during bar opening prep?

Rotating stock should be done every day during the opening process. Check expiration dates and move older items to the front, making them easily accessible for use during service. This prevents waste and ensures that your bar is serving fresh products. Regular rotation also keeps your inventory up-to-date and helps you identify when new stock is needed.

What’s the best way to organize my bar setup for speed and efficiency?

A well-organized bar setup involves grouping frequently used items together and ensuring that bartenders can reach essential tools and ingredients quickly. Place liquor bottles, mixers, and garnishes in logical, easy-to-reach spots, and keep backup stock nearby for fast replenishment. Keeping your workspace tidy and uncluttered boosts speed and minimizes mistakes during service.

How do I handle bar opening if you run out of time before customers arrive?

If you’re running out of time before the bar opens, prioritize essential tasks like stocking the bar, setting up equipment, and prepping high-demand items like ice and garnishes. Delegate smaller tasks to other team members and use downtime during early customer service to finish non-urgent tasks like cleaning or organizing less-used tools.


This template, developed by Lumiform employees, serves as a starting point for businesses using the Lumiform platform and is intended as a hypothetical example only. It does not replace professional advice. Companies should consult qualified professionals to assess the suitability and legality of using this template in their specific workplace or jurisdiction. Lumiform is not liable for any errors or omissions in this template or for any actions taken based on its content.
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