Daily Opening & Closing Checklist
About This Resource
Inconsistent opens and closes are the #1 source of operational errors in restaurants — missed prep, uncounted cash, equipment left running, doors unlocked. This checklist eliminates all of that. The AM checklist covers everything from turning on equipment in the right sequence to verifying prep lists and staging the floor. The PM checklist covers cash reconciliation, cleaning station sign-offs, equipment shutdown, food storage checks, and security protocols. Both are designed to be printed, laminated, and used with a dry-erase marker daily. Includes a manager sign-off section and a weekly deep-clean addendum.
What's Included
Who Is This For?
Every restaurant, cafe, bar, or cloud kitchen. Whether you have 3 staff or 30, standardized open/close procedures prevent costly mistakes and keep your team accountable.
Quick Start Guide
- 1Print both the AM and PM checklists (or use on a tablet)
- 2Customize the task list by crossing out irrelevant items and adding your specific equipment
- 3Assign one person per shift to complete and sign off
- 4Manager reviews and countersigns weekly — track patterns in missed items
The Resource
Morning Opening Checklist (AM Shift)
0/12 completed
Evening Closing Checklist (PM Shift)
0/13 completed
Pro Tip
Print these checklists, laminate them, and use a dry-erase marker to check off items each day. At the end of the shift, the closing manager signs and dates the checklist. Keep completed checklists for 30 days — if something goes wrong (health inspection, theft, equipment failure), you have documentation that procedures were followed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely. The checklist is designed to be a starting framework. Cross out items that don't apply, add your specific equipment names, and laminate for daily reuse with a dry-erase marker.
Both. The checklist covers FOH (floor setup, POS, music, lighting) and BOH (equipment, prep, storage, cleaning) in separate sections so you can assign them to different team members.
Make it a non-negotiable part of the shift handover. The manager sign-off section creates accountability. Most restaurants see compliance within 1-2 weeks once it becomes routine.
Daily Opening & Closing Checklist
Printable Checklist · 5 min/day
Download coming soon — document is being finalized.
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