Restaurant Closing Checklist Template – Free PDF

Restaurant closing checklist

The restaurant closing checklist template enables you to be systematic with end-of-day procedures, guiding you through properly securing, sanitizing, and preparing your restaurant for the next day’s service. It tackles the challenge of maintaining consistent standards when multiple staff members handle closing duties. When properly implemented, it creates accountability by requiring inspector verification of completed tasks, from equipment storage to inventory management.

Research shows that 80% of food-borne illness outbreaks in food service establishments stem from issues like cross-contamination and inadequate maintenance. The checklist helps prevent these problems by standardizing cleaning protocols and equipment checks before staff leave for the night.

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Preview of the template

Audit

Closing Inspection

All cutlery are washed, wiped & stacked properly along with crockery items.

All service staff have been debriefed and assigned closing duties.

All dirty glassware are washed , wiped & stacked.

Floor has been cleaned by housekeeping staff.

Garbage has been thrown and disposed properly.

All crockery, cutlery, and glassware have been shifted to dish wash.

Back area & the service area are clean & store is properly stacked.

Reported any breakage occurred.

All the tables & counters are clean.

Folders for comment cards are checked.

Air-conditioning has been switched off.

Any items left over by the guest have been deposited with the Lost & Found.

Restaurant has been reset for the following day.

All equipment stored appropriately.

Side station has been cleaned & stacked properly.

Soiled linen is stored as per standard and the tied into bundles.

Dish-wash has been cleared.

Store requisition to be made after physically checking the stock.

POS machine & music system are switched off.

No discrepancies in checks.

Void items / KOT to be Authorized are evaluated.

Check for the sale & menu Item summary report.

Log Books are accurately filled-in.

Lights have been switched off and the restaurant has been locked.

Completion

Recommnendations

Full Name and Signature of Inspector

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Frequently asked questions

How can you customize this restaurant closing checklist for different types of establishments?

You can add sections specific to your operation, such as specialized equipment checks for pizzerias or bar-specific tasks for establishments serving alcohol. Focus on your unique pain points—whether that’s inventory management or specialized cleaning procedures—and adjust the verification requirements as needed.

How do you make sure staff actually complete the checklist rather than just checking boxes?

Create accountability by requiring photos for some completed tasks, implementing random spot checks by management, and reviewing the previous night’s checklist during morning opening. Recognize staff who consistently complete thorough closings, and address any patterns of incomplete tasks through constructive feedback.

What should you do when the checklist reveals recurring problems with specific closing tasks?

Document patterns of recurring issues and analyze whether they stem from training gaps, equipment problems, or scheduling constraints. Address the root cause through targeted training, equipment repair, or process adjustment rather than simply reminding staff to complete the task.

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.