Templates
Restaurant opening and closing checklist template

Restaurant opening and closing checklist template

Use this template to bring structure and consistency to your daily operations and track tasks like inventory checks and equipment shutdown.

Use this template with Lumiform

  • Customize this template or build your own
  • Fill out templates via mobile app
  • Get reports and analyse your data
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Learn more
or Download template as PDF
Restaurant opening and closing checklist template

Use this template to bring structure and consistency to your daily operations and track tasks like inventory checks and equipment shutdown.

Use this template with Lumiform

  • Customize this template or build your own
  • Fill out templates via mobile app
  • Get reports and analyse your data
Prices start from ░░░ per month
Book a demo
Learn more
or Download template as PDF

A restaurant opening and closing checklist template provides a structured framework to ensure no critical tasks are missing during these pivotal transitions. This digital tool helps you maintain consistent standards, enhance food safety compliance, and reduce operational costs by properly shutting down equipment.

In a recent TouchBistro survey  70% of diners consider health code violations when choosing a restaurant. When a new server forgets to restock condiments before closing, your morning team faces unnecessary rush—this template prevents such communication gaps by clearly assigning responsibilities and creating accountability across shifts.

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Created by

Author Name Ima Ocon
Preview of the template
Page 1
Opening Procedures
Unlock all exterior doors and disable alarm system
Turn on all lighting, including dining room, kitchen, and exterior lights
Ensure all equipment, including ovens, stoves, and warmers, are turned on and functioning properly
Check that the point of sale system is operational and all necessary software is running
Ensure all food and beverage inventory is fully stocked and stored at proper temperatures
Verify that all necessary small wares and utensils are clean and available for use
Complete a comprehensive walk-through of the dining room, ensuring all tables, chairs, and decor are properly set and presentable
Ensure that the restrooms are clean, well-stocked, and ready for customer use
Closing Procedures
Ensure all customers have left the premises and the dining room is empty
Turn off all kitchen equipment, including ovens, stoves, and warmers
Conduct a final walk-through of the dining room and all common areas, ensuring all lights are turned off and all doors and windows are locked
Verify that the point of sale system is properly shut down and all cash is secured
Ensure all food and beverage inventory is properly stored, with any perishable items discarded as necessary
Check that the alarm system is armed and the exterior doors are locked
Perform a final inspection of the entire premises to ensure everything is secure and ready for the next day's operations

Frequently asked questions

What should be present in a restaurant opening and closing checklist template?

A comprehensive restaurant opening and closing checklist template should include equipment startup procedures, food prep tasks, dining area setup, inventory verification, and safety inspections. Include sections for both front and back of house, with clear responsibility assignments. The most effective templates also feature verification spaces for managers to ensure accountability across all critical morning tasks.

How can a restaurant closing checklist reduce operational costs?

A well-structured closing checklist reduces costs by ensuring proper equipment shutdown, preventing food waste through proper storage, minimizing utility usage overnight, and extending equipment lifespan through consistent maintenance. The checklist creates accountability for turning off non-essential systems and securing inventory, directly impacting your bottom line through reduced shrinkage and energy consumption.

What are the most commonly forgotten tasks on restaurant opening and closing checklist template?

The most commonly forgotten closing tasks include checking walk-in refrigerator temperatures, restocking server stations for morning shift, emptying coffee machines, securing back entrances, and properly dating prepped food items. These oversights often create morning rush problems and potential food safety issues, highlighting why a comprehensive closing checklist is essential for smooth operations.

Author
Ima Ocon
Ima is a writer and editor who specializes in technology, with experience crafting content for companies like Canva and FluentU. She's passionate about startups, remote work, and language learning, as well as the applications of AI in marketing. Currently, she is based in Asia, and she previously studied in Taiwan and Singapore.
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.