Restaurant Opening Checklist Template – Free Download

Restaurant opening checklist

This restaurant opening checklist template brings structure to your daily opening procedures, ensuring nothing gets missed during busy morning preparations. From confirming proper table layouts to checking that the POS system is operational, each item targets specific areas that directly impact service quality.

A survey by the National Restaurant Association revealed that 45% of restaurant operators anticipated growing competition every year. To stay competitive, you need consistent processes that maintain standards. When staff members change or you’re training new employees, this checklist provides clear guidance on tasks like inspecting glassware for chips and ensuring side stations are properly stocked.

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Preview of the template

Audit

Opening Checklist

Seating arrangement has been done as required

All linen is cleaned, ironed & folded as per the standard

Adequate mise-en-place has been stacked

Check for table/ chair wobbling

Check for cleanliness & proper lay-out of table

Check quality of glassware and discard chipped glasses, crockery, cutlery checked for cleanliness

REFERENCE: Clean and no chipped glasses [This is an example of how you can use Lumiform to include best practice reference images in your templates to assist with inspections]

Ensure floor is clean and polished

Walls, curtains are checked for any visible spots

Check for used bulbs and follow up with the maintenance

All lights and electrical points operational

Air-conditioning operational

Check for the proper stacking of mineral water/soft drinks

Ensure the side station is stacked properly as per the standard

Check that the water cooler is functioning properly

Check Ice cube machine

Ensure that the POS system is working properly

Ensure that the non-available Item list is written on the board & everybody is aware

Check if telephone is working

Ensure that everybody has service kit & is properly groomed

Brief the staff for the operation & up-selling

Allocate the staff to their respective areas

Completion

Recommendations

Full Name and Signature of Inspector

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Frequently asked questions

What are some ways to customize this restaurant opening checklist for your specific establishment?

Analyze your restaurant’s unique workflow and add establishment-specific items like specialty equipment checks or signature service elements. Remove irrelevant sections, adjust timing based on your opening schedule, and incorporate feedback from staff who perform these tasks daily to create a truly personalized checklist.

How can you measure the effectiveness of your restaurant opening checklist?

Track key performance indicators like reduction in customer complaints about cleanliness or service readiness, decreased equipment downtime from early problem detection, and improved health inspection scores. You can also survey staff about how usable the checklist and monitor how consistently team members complete the checklist correctly.

Who should review completed restaurant opening checklists?

The opening manager should review completed checklists daily to verify all tasks were properly completed. Additionally, general managers should periodically audit checklists to identify recurring issues, recognize diligent staff, and make sure the checklist remains relevant to current operations and seasonal needs.

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.