Template

Opening Server Checklist

by Leah Romer, from the Community

This opening server checklist helps restaurant teams prepare the front of house before service. Tasks include resetting and cleaning tables and chairs, cutting fruit for water service, polishing and stocking silverware, refreshing the to-go station, and refilling the soda station with straws and glassware. Server stations should be stocked with water and wine glasses and napkins, then cleaned and organized. Verify table sturdiness, place lamps at correct settings, tidy the lamp charging area, and set up serving trays in designated locations. Finally, report to the manager for pre-shift and assist with any additional opening procedures as requested.

With SafetyCulture you can

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

With SafetyCulture you can

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

About author

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
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
Downloads: 0
Get
Template
Lago Manager Opening Checklist
Use this manager opening checklist to prepare Lago for service. Review to-go station supplies, refill water, and set up the wine cooler and fridges. At the host stand, return missed calls, verify clean, up-to-date menus, and accept pending reservations. Ready the dining room by unlocking doors, turning on lights and music, and stocking server stations. On the patio, open umbrellas, turn on lights and fans, and confirm the layout matches reservations. At the bar, count and confirm the bank. This checklist supports consistent, efficient restaurant opening procedures.
by Zachary Klehm, from the Community
Downloads: 0
Get
Template
Restaurant Opening Audit Checklist
This restaurant opening audit checklist helps managers verify afternoon readiness across the bar, server stations, kitchen line, and entire venue. It covers lighting, exterior cleanliness, garnish and drink stations, shake station setup, restrooms, and sanitation. FOH tasks include patio setup, host stand supplies, menus and silverware, windows and entry mats, and server station stock. BOH tasks include dish pit setup, fryer, grill and flat-top cleaning, utensil readiness, stocking meats, buns, toppings, and temperature checks. A final double-check ensures ambiance, TVs, table stability, railings and surfaces are clean, and shift notes are prepared, supporting smooth service by 5:30 PM.
by Windsor Stuft, from the Community
Downloads: 10+
Get
Template
Closing Server Checklist
This closing server checklist helps front-of-house teams complete end-of-shift duties with consistency. It covers section closeouts, sidework, restocking, soda station shutdowns, ice well drying, silverware and glassware polishing, napkin folding, garnish storage, and final manager sign-off. Use it to standardize nightly procedures, maintain cleanliness and readiness, and ensure a smooth open the next day.
by Leah Romer, from the Community
Downloads: 0
Get

Opening Server Checklist

About author

You might also like

Front of House Opening Checks

Lago Manager Opening Checklist

Restaurant Opening Audit Checklist

Closing Server Checklist

You might also like

Front of House Opening Checks

Lago Manager Opening Checklist

Restaurant Opening Audit Checklist

Closing Server Checklist