Template

CRAFT VH Opening Manager Checklist

by Matt Malak, from the Community

This CRAFT VH Opening Manager Checklist helps restaurant leaders prepare the venue for service. Tasks cover front door signage and cleanliness, labor planning and section assignments, FOH setup with labeled and dated product, ice machine checks, line and bar checks, and turning on TVs and music. It includes organizing pass-throughs and stairwells, stocking takeout and expo, ensuring hand-washing stations are ready, and tidying team areas and back hallways. Washroom cleanliness and supplies are verified, marketing posters updated, and bathroom locks checked. The chemical room and beer gas levels are inspected, with overall tidiness confirmed to ensure a smooth, on-time open.

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Digitize any process, procedure or policy

Eliminate mistakes made by paper-based processes

Create and share professional reports instantly

Confirm accountability and compliance with a digital log

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Community

This community page makes available free workplace checklists and templates created by other users within the SafetyCulture community. SafetyCulture has re-published this content and where possible, has credited the original author. SafetyCulture has not verified the accuracy, reliability or suitability of any community content. You agree that your use of any of this content is in accordance with SafetyCulture’s Terms and Conditions .

Template

Master Restaurant Manager Opening Checklist

This master manager opening checklist helps restaurant leaders prepare the front of house and bar for a smooth service. Tasks include reviewing reservations and manager notes, organizing staff schedules, conducting pre-shift, confirming uniforms, and verifying FOH readiness. It covers venue walk-throughs for table resets, bar closure standards, bathroom supplies and cleanliness, as well as ambience settings like lighting and music. Managers also meet with the chef to review reservations, 86 items, and concerns, check the exterior and patio, and unlock doors ahead of opening.

by Leah Romer, from the Community

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Template

Opening Manager Checklist

This restaurant opening manager checklist helps leaders prepare the front and back of house for a smooth shift. It covers ambiance, lighting, music and TVs; office tasks like rosters, floor plans, emails, budgets and cash drawers; dining room and patio cleanliness and setup; bar presentation and menu condition; Yelp and VIP checks and side work assignments; team standards for uniforms and clock-ins; pre-shift notes, specials, cuts and host coverage; kitchen 86s and low items; and safety tasks including health inspections and twice-daily line checks with backups verified. Use it to align managers, maintain consistency and meet daily goals.

by Tahimi Torres, from the Community

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Template

Bar Opening Checklist for Every Shift

This bar opening checklist helps bartenders and duty managers follow the correct procedures before opening. It covers stocking glassware and utensils, preparing garnishes and mixers, filling ice bins, checking liquor, beer, and wine backups, setting up blenders and service wells, cleaning and sanitizing sinks and surfaces, turning on lights, music, TVs, and signage, and verifying menus, plateware, and restrooms. Use it to standardize opening routines, reduce missed steps, and ensure readiness for consistent guest service and compliance.

by Martin Esparon, from the Community

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Template

FOH Opening Checklist - Team Member

This FOH opening checklist helps cafe and restaurant team members prepare the front of house for a smooth service. Cover critical pre-open tasks between 7:00–7:30am, including turning on ovens and small equipment, setting up the coffee machine and milk station, prepping acai and juicer stations, labeling and rotating fridge items, restocking displays, preparing pastries and sandwiches, cleaning glass, tables, and POS, arranging outdoor seating and signage, and confirming labels and soup stations. Use this template to standardize routines, maintain food safety and presentation, and ensure the venue is clean, stocked, and ready for customers.

by Mark Haselden, from the Community

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Template

Front of House Opening Checks

This front of house opening checklist helps restaurant, cafe, and bar teams prepare for service at the start of each shift. Typical tasks include cleaning and stocking the cake cabinet and ice cream freezer, wiping tables and chairs, ensuring menus and table tins are set, refreshing water and ice, topping up napkins, and confirming POS is ready. Use it to standardize FOH routines, improve cleanliness, speed setup, and keep staff aligned on expectations. Adapt items to match your venue’s operations and local requirements.

by Amy Ryder, from the Community

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Template

Melwhisks Restaurant Opening Checklist

This restaurant opening checklist helps managers and teams prepare the venue before service. It covers front of house and bar setup, including table and chair placement, lighting and electrical checks, wobble and damage checks, and cleanliness of glassware, crockery, and cutlery. It prompts verification of POS, refrigeration, ice, beverages, mise en place, and cocktail garnishes. Staff briefing, station assignments, and confirmation of grooming and service kits are included, along with noting non available items and app updates for delivery platforms. Use this template to standardize pre opening routines and ensure consistent readiness.

by anandh veeraragavan, from the Community

10+

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CRAFT VH Opening Manager Checklist

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