Templates
New restaurant opening checklist

New restaurant opening checklist

Manage the essential tasks with this new restaurant opening checklist, which tracks permits, equipment setup, staffing, and more.

Use this template with Lumiform

The Lumiform application helps frontline teams uphold internal standards effortlessly.
  • Customize this template or build your own
  • Fill out templates via mobile app
  • Assign and track corrective actions
  • Get reports and analyse your data
Prices start from ░░░ per month
Book a demo
Learn more
or Download template as PDF
New restaurant opening checklist

Manage the essential tasks with this new restaurant opening checklist, which tracks permits, equipment setup, staffing, and more.

Use this template with Lumiform

The Lumiform application helps frontline teams uphold internal standards effortlessly.
  • Customize this template or build your own
  • Fill out templates via mobile app
  • Assign and track corrective actions
  • Get reports and analyse your data
Prices start from ░░░ per month
Book a demo
Learn more
or Download template as PDF

Opening a restaurant requires juggling dozens of critical tasks simultaneously—a challenge this checklist solves by organizing everything from licensing requirements to final inspections in one comprehensive tool. When you’re securing permits, installing equipment, developing your menu, and training staff, this checklist prevents important details from being overlooked, potentially saving you from costly reopening delays.

The National Restaurant Association found that 40% of restaurant operators report increased productivity after adopting digital tools. This checklist helps you capture that same advantage by transforming your opening process to be more efficient and controlled.

Related categories

Preview of the template
Page 1
Permits & Licensing
Obtain necessary business licenses
Acquire food service permits
Complete tax registration forms
Secure liquor license if serving alcohol
Facility Setup
Finalize restaurant layout and design
Install appropriate kitchen equipment
Ensure proper ventilation and temperature controls
Implement safety and security measures
Operations Planning
Develop comprehensive menu
Establish inventory management system
Create staffing plan and hire team
Procure necessary supplies and smallwares
Marketing & Branding
Design brand identity and logo
Develop website and online presence
Plan grand opening event and promotions
Implement local community outreach
Final Preparations
Complete staff training
Finalize opening day operational procedures
Ensure all equipment is functioning properly
Conduct final walkthrough and inspection

Frequently asked questions

How far in advance should you start using a restaurant opening checklist?

Begin using your restaurant opening checklist 6-12 months before your target opening date. This timeline gives you adequate runway for securing permits, which can take months in some jurisdictions. You’ll also need to finalize construction, order equipment with long lead times, and properly train your staff.

Which process typically requires the most time when opening a restaurant?

The permits and licensing section typically requires the most time due to bureaucratic processes beyond your control. Start this first, as some permits can take 3-6 months to secure. Meanwhile, you can work through other areas like menu development and marketing planning in parallel.

What should you do if you discover missed items while working through your restaurant opening checklist?

First, assess the impact of the missed item on your opening timeline. For minor issues, assign someone to address it immediately. For major items like missing permits, you may need to adjust your opening date. Update your checklist to include this item for future reference.

How can you adapt this restaurant opening checklist for different types of food establishments?

Modify the checklist based on your specific concept. For a food truck, focus more on mobile permits and less on facility setup. On the other hand, for a fine dining restaurant, expand the staffing and training sections. If you’re managing a franchise, add sections for brand compliance and corporate approvals.

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.