Daily Checklists for Restaurants

Daily checklists are essential tools for ensuring that your restaurant runs smoothly and efficiently. They help maintain cleanliness, organization, and overall customer satisfaction. Here is a comprehensive guide to examples of daily checklists your restaurant should create:
(These are examples meant to give you ideas and guidance, ultimately, every restaurant will need a different set of Checklists)

Opening Checklist:

  1. Check the restaurant's exterior for debris
  2. Unlock the front door
  3. Examine the cleanliness of the bathroom and clean it if necessary
  4. Restock tabletop supplies such as salt and pepper shakers, sugar packets, and ketchup
  5. Verify that each table has a tidy and complete arrangement
  6. Make sure trash cans are empty
  7. Organize the dining room
  8. Review the day's catering schedule and/or reservation list
  9. Clean glass doors and windows to remove streaks and smudges
  10. Restock the receipt paper

Kitchen Opening Checklist:

  1. Check the cleanliness of all kitchen equipment and surfaces
  2. Ensure that all appliances are functioning properly
  3. Verify that all required ingredients are in stock and properly stored
  4. Prepare and set up the line for service
  5. Check and record food temperatures
  6. Review daily specials and menu changes with the kitchen team
  7. Ensure that all prep work is completed and organized

Closing Checklist:

  1. Mop the floor
  2. Restock the napkin dispensers
  3. Refill salt and pepper shakers
  4. Verify that the cash balance corresponds to the POS system data
  5. Clean all tables
  6. Empty rag buckets
  7. Restock the guest bathroom as necessary and clean it
  8. Collect rags to be laundered
  9. Send a message about anything the next shift needs to know
  10. Sweep the floor
  11. Empty all trash cans and put garbage in the dumpster
  12. Ensure no food is left out
  13. Set the security system and lock all doors
  14. Flip chairs on top of tables

Kitchen Closing Checklist:

  1. Clean and sanitize all kitchen equipment and surfaces
  2. Store and label leftover food items properly
  3. Check and record food temperatures
  4. Dispose of any expired or spoiled ingredients
  5. Ensure that all appliances are turned off and cleaned
  6. Restock and organize ingredients for the next day's service
  7. Sweep and mop the kitchen floor

By implementing these daily checklists in your restaurant, you can maintain a clean, organized, and efficient operation that consistently provides an exceptional dining experience for your customers.