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Restaurant internal audit checklist

Restaurant internal audit checklist

Evaluate your restaurant’s operations with precision using this internal audit checklist. Use it to conduct thorough evaluations, from kitchen safety to staff compliance.

Use this template
or download pdf
Restaurant internal audit checklist

Evaluate your restaurant’s operations with precision using this internal audit checklist. Use it to conduct thorough evaluations, from kitchen safety to staff compliance.

Use this template
or download pdf

About the Restaurant internal audit checklist

Restaurants must comply with stringent health, safety, and quality standards while consistently satisfying the expectations of customers. The restaurant internal audit checklist is crafted to assist mid-managers, providing a structured approach to evaluate every facet of your restaurant operations.

From monitoring kitchen cleanliness to verifying employee compliance, this checklist takes you through a comprehensive review. It’s designed not only to simplify your audit process but also to enhance adherence to both internal standards and regulations.

Key elements of the restaurant internal audit checklist

Here are the main components that make this checklist indispensable for restaurant managers:

  • General information: First, you’ll capture the basics such as your restaurant’s name, address, and the manager’s name. This section grounds the audit in specifics, ensuring all data collected is easily traceable back to its source.
  • Facility and maintenance: From the condition of the exterior to the functionality of the HVAC system, this section ensures your physical premises meet safety and operational standards. This leads to a safe, functional environment for both staff and patrons.
  • Food safety and regulations: Critical for compliance and customer health, this part reviews food handling practices, storage temperatures, and sanitation measures. Proper evaluation here helps you prevent health hazards while following regulations.
  • Operational procedures: Next, you’ll examine the efficiency and accuracy of order taking, food preparation, and cash handling. This area helps streamline operations and enhance customer service by identifying bottlenecks and areas for improvement.
  • Employee training and development: This section focuses on the growth and knowledge of your team. Employees must be knowledgeable about food safety while also having strong customer interaction and conflict resolution skills.

How to customize the restaurant internal audit checklist

You can easily customize the checklist in the Lumiform app to address the specifics of your restaurant operations.

Feel free to add custom sections for unique equipment or services offered. If your restaurant features specialized equipment, include inspection points for these elements. For example, you can add a section to assess the maintenance of pizza ovens or hygiene standards at cooking stations.

You can also modify existing sections based on local health codes or regulations. Health codes can vary significantly by location, affecting everything from food storage to waste management.

Leverage the app’s conditional logic feature to make your checklist more dynamic If a question about the cleanliness of the dining area is marked unsatisfactory, your form can automatically prompt a follow-up question or task, such as scheduling a deep cleaning session or notifying the maintenance team.

Download Lumiform’s restaurant internal audit checklist today

Enhance your restaurant’s operations by using this restaurant internal audit checklist. It allows you to conduct thorough assessments that cover essential areas, from kitchen safety to customer service. With customizable sections to match your specific needs, this checklist not only improves compliance but also boosts your operational standards, fostering a culture of excellence and reliability.

Categories

  • Risk management and compliance templates
  • Hospitality templates
  • Quality assurance templates
Preview of the template
Page 1
General Information
Restaurant Name
geolocation!!!
Restaurant Manager's Name
Date of Audit
Facility and Maintenance
Is the exterior of the building well-maintained?
Are all fixtures, equipment, and surfaces in the dining area clean and in good condition?
Are the restrooms clean, well-stocked, and in good working order?
Is the kitchen area clean, organized, and free of any hazards?
Is the HVAC system functioning properly to maintain a comfortable temperature?
Are the lighting fixtures in good working condition throughout the facility?
Are all necessary permits and licenses displayed prominently?
Comments
Food Safety and Sanitation
Are food preparation surfaces and equipment clean and sanitized?
Are cold food items stored at the appropriate temperature (40°F or below)?
Are hot food items held at the appropriate temperature (140°F or above)?
Are food items properly labeled with expiration dates?
Are employees following proper handwashing procedures?
Are sanitizing solutions being used at the correct concentration?
Are pest control measures in place and effective?
Comments
Operational Procedures
Are orders taken accurately and efficiently?
Are food items prepared and served in a timely manner?
Are cash handling procedures followed correctly?
Are inventory management processes effective?
Are employee grooming and dress code standards met?
Are customer complaints handled promptly and appropriately?
Are effective systems in place to manage food waste and recycling?
Comments
Employee Training and Development
Do employees receive comprehensive training on food safety and sanitation?
Are employees knowledgeable about menu items and able to make recommendations?
Do employees receive training on customer service and conflict resolution?
Are there opportunities for employee development and advancement?
Do employees feel valued and engaged in the restaurant's success?
Are employee performance reviews conducted regularly?
Comments

Frequently asked questions

What are internal audits in the food industry?

Internal audits in the food industry are systematic evaluations conducted to assess whether food handling, processing, and service comply with established standards, safety regulations, and operational efficiencies. These audits aim to identify areas for improvement and ensure compliance with health and safety laws.

How do I audit a restaurant?

To audit a restaurant, you’ll have to examine various operational and compliance-related aspects, including food safety, employee practices, and customer service. Start by reviewing critical areas like kitchen hygiene, storage temperatures, and staff handling procedures. You can use the checklist above to consistently evaluate each area, document findings, and recommend improvements.

What is the job description of an internal auditor in a restaurant?

An internal auditor in a restaurant is responsible for inspecting and assessing the operational practices and adherence with food safety and health regulations. Their job includes reviewing cooking processes, storage procedures, staff hygiene practices, and the overall maintenance of the restaurant to identify risks and non-compliance issues. This way, the establishment can meet all regulatory standards.

What are the common mistakes in restaurant audits and how can they be avoided?

Common mistakes in restaurant audits include overlooking minor compliance issues, inconsistent evaluations, and failure to follow up on corrective actions. You can avoid this by using a detailed audit checklist, which trains auditors on what to look for. This also ensures consistency across all audits and makes it easier to track whether changes have been implemented.

What specific metrics should be included in an audit to measure employee performance?

Metrics for employee performance include adherence to food safety protocols, customer service ratings, and efficiency in finishing tasks. You can also monitor punctuality, cleanliness, and teamwork to get insights on employees’ overall conduct and how they contribute to the restaurant. Tracking these metrics allows you to spot areas for employee training and development.

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.