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Restaurant Opening Checklist

Description
Although every restaurant opening is different, and brings with it its own unique set of challenges, a reference document is
necessary to keep the process in order. This checklist was created to help you anticipate and prepare for the major tasks
and decisions that need to be addressed in the year preceding your opening. You will almost certainly run into concept and
site specific issues that are not addressed on this checklist. Please add to this list accordingly and let us know what was
missing so we can continue to make this resource as robust as possible.
Instructions
Before you begin editing create a working copy by saving this workbook locally
We suggest working primarily in the "Category" worksheet
Use the "Month" worksheet as a timeline reference for specific tasks

Notes
All worksheets are preformatted to print Landscape
There are at least five blank rows inserted within each category for additional items (print layout will be maintained)
If you have any questions please email info@myfirstrestaurant.com with Subject: Restaurant Opening Checklist
If you found this resource valuable please visit us at www.myfirstrestaurant.com and leave a comment there

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Category

Category

Months
Prior To
Opening

Activity

Administration

12

begin interviewing professional service providers


- attorney, accountant, architect, designer, insurance agent, real estate
broker

Administration

11

collect information on required permits and licenses


- health dept, business license, liquor license, other

Administration

10

identify insurance needs


- building, liability, workers comp, other

Administration

banking
- open and fund construction account

Administration

liquor license
- investigate application process/availability of license

Administration

apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN)

Administration

create a credit application sheet for vendors


- include references

Administration

liquor license
- apply for
- hiring professional assistance if necessary

Administration

timekeeping system
- decide on system type (time cards, manual, POS)

Administration

alcoholic beverage server certification


- determine requirements

Administration

banking
- open operating, payroll, reserve accounts
- order checks, deposit slips

Administration

payroll processing
- select vendor and open account

Administration

credit card merchant accounts


- select vendor and open account setup for MC/Visa, Amex, Discover,
Others

Administration

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

accounting software
- select in-house accounting software
- format chart of accounts consistent with industry standards

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Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Category

Category

Months
Prior To
Opening

Administration

Administration

deposit procedures
- set up processes, pick ups, drops, etc

Administration

insurance
- verify with your agent that all policies are ready to go live

Administration

bank supplies
- deposit stamp, deposit bags, deposit slips

Administration

accounting/Bookkeeping
- have CPA review sales, deposit, payroll,etc before launch

Administration

permits, licenses, inspections, approvals


- verify that all required licenses have been secured

Administration

cash tills
- get change & small bills from bank

Administration

POS/Merchant accounts
- test credit card approval/processing

Administration

Activity

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

petty cash
- setup petty cash fund for cash payments
- create petty cash reimbursement form

receive final certificate of occupancy

Administration
Administration
Administration
Administration
Administration
Administration
Administration
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Restaurant Opening Checklist

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Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Category

Category

Months
Prior To
Opening

Activity

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

Administration
Administration
Concept
Development

12

research successful concepts


- collect info on appealing concepts

Concept
Development

12

research market
- look for opportunities or concept gaps

Concept
Development

12

research competitive landscape


- which concepts are most successful

Concept
Development

11

determine menu price range


- study price points of restaurants in your area

Concept
Development

11

preliminary food & bar menus


- begin collecting menu/recipe ideas

Concept
Development

10

continue to define concept


- type of service, price range, menu

Concept
Development

differentiation
- determine your unique selling proposition

Concept
Development

concept validation/testing
- interview potential customers

Concept
Development

determine restaurant name


- do a trade name search to confirm availability

Concept
Development

finalize concept
- draft concept statement fully describing concept

Concept
Development
Concept
Development
Concept
Development

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

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Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Category

Category

Months
Prior To
Opening

Activity

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

Concept
Development
Concept
Development
Concept
Development
Concept
Development
Design &
Construction

12

market research
- study local markets
- create list of the most promising areas

Design &
Construction

11

graphic artist
- find a graphic artist to work with

Design &
Construction

10

determine facility requirements


- overall square footage needs, seats, parking, etc

Design &
Construction

10

site selection criteria


- determine site criteria
- demographics
- number of seats
- traffic count
- overall space requirements

Design &
Construction

10

architect
- check references, create short list of quality firms

Design &
Construction

10

general contractors
- check references, create short list of quality firms

Design &
Construction

10

design firms
- check references, create short list of quality firms

Design &
Construction

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

competitive analysis
- examine strengths & weaknesses of competitors
- evaluate relative success of restaurant in local market
- what dining segments are not being well-served

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Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Category

Category

Months
Prior To
Opening

Design &
Construction

square footage
- determine optimum square footage needed
- include kitchen, dining room, storage

Design &
Construction

find a real estate broker


- find a broker with a specialty or focus on restaurant sites

Design &
Construction

health department
- verify no health-related conditions present that could pose problems

Design &
Construction

ansul system
- research local requirements

Design &
Construction

construction costs
- get estimates for build out from several contractors

Design &
Construction

Design &
Construction

bar seating
- estimate potential bar revenue
- preliminary layout of bar

Design &
Construction

building/fire/safety codes
- make list of all applicable code requirements

Design &
Construction

electrical service
- evaluate adequacy of available power for equipment needs

Design &
Construction

floor plan
- obtain or create a floor plan of existing space
- specifically include load-bearing walls

Design &
Construction

floor slope evaluation


- consider slope on handicap ramp OSHA requirements
- safety considerations for staff & guests

Design &
Construction

lighting fixtures
- inspect interior & exterior lighting including parking lot

Design &
Construction

list of existing kitchen equipment


- obtain detailed list
- evaluate condition

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

Activity

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

handicap access/requirements

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Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Category

Category

Months
Prior To
Opening

Design &
Construction

Design &
Construction

sewer lines
- evaluate adequacy; size, capacity, age, condition

Design &
Construction

termite report
- have property inspected for termite/pest problems

Design &
Construction

number of tables/seats
- estimate potential seating/revenue potential of dining room

Design &
Construction

parking lot
- is there adequate parking
- what is the ratio of seats to parking spaces, is there a local minimum

Design &
Construction

traffic patterns
- evaluate adequacy of traffic flow around and through space

Design &
Construction

zoning requirements
- verity that there are no zoning problems with your concept/plans

Design &
Construction

Design &
Construction

Design &
Construction

Design &
Construction

contractor
- select a contractor

Design &
Construction

waste water
- permits, procedures, plans, installation, inspection

Design &
Construction

water service
- permits, procedures, plans, installation, inspection

Design &
Construction

electrical service
- permits, procedures, plans, installation, inspection

Design &
Construction

gas service
- permits, procedures, plans, installation, inspection

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

Activity

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

conduct a roof inspection

select architect/designer
architectural/design
- review & approve
secure builder's risk insurance

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Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Category

Category

Months
Prior To
Opening

Design &
Construction

grease trap
- permits, procedures, plans, installation, inspection

Design &
Construction

construction timeline
- time for each phase, completion date

Design &
Construction

Design &
Construction

design-exterior
- siding, ramps, windows, awnings, lighting

Design &
Construction

design-interior
- kitchen, bar, dining room, bar, office, lighting

Design &
Construction

Design &
Construction

outside seating
- design, available seating, permits, w/w station, cost feasibility

Design &
Construction

utilities
- determine utility company options
- choose provider

Design &
Construction

gas lines
- adequate size, capacity, age, condition

Design &
Construction

HVAC system
- inspect/evaluate condition

Design &
Construction

Design &
Construction

Design &
Construction

Design &
Construction

Design &
Construction

Design &
Construction

Design &
Construction

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

Activity

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

start demolition work

secure general liability insurance

select type of flooring


acoustical ceilings
air conditioning/circulation
address back door
- peep hole, buzzer for deliveries, emergency bar
bathroom partitions & accessories
burglar alarm system
order canopies & awnings
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Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Category

Category

Months
Prior To
Opening

Design &
Construction

Design &
Construction

apply design elements


- logo, colors, type style

Design &
Construction

door locks
- deadbolts, re-key locks prior to opening

Design &
Construction

door/exits hardware
- alarms, push bars, emergency escape

Design &
Construction

Design &
Construction

drywall

Design &
Construction

electrical/lighting

Design &
Construction

exterior painting

Design &
Construction

Interior painting

Design &
Construction

Design &
Construction

kitchen fire control


- design & setup system

Design &
Construction

masonry

Design &
Construction

mechanical

Design &
Construction

parking lot
- resurfacing, control access during construction

Design &
Construction

Design &
Construction

plumbing

Design &
Construction

roofing & waterproofing

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

Activity

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

begin carpentry

doors, frames & hardware

flooring install

paving

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Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Category

Category

Months
Prior To
Opening

Design &
Construction

sprinkler system
- obtain requirements
- have wired to alarm system

Design &
Construction

smoke detectors
- wire to alarm system

Design &
Construction

sound/music system

Design &
Construction

steel/railings

Design &
Construction

begin through list of inspectors


- building, fire, electrical, plumbing, health

Design &
Construction

fire extinguishers
- install with visible operating instructions

Design &
Construction

landscaping
- design & bid contract

Design &
Construction

lighting for parking lot

Design &
Construction

cleaning crew
- bid & select vendor for initial & final clean

Design &
Construction

exterior signage
- primary, handicap, reserved, valet, hours of operation, delivery times

Design &
Construction

supplier, contractor, sub-contractor contacts


- create master phone & contact list with emergency numbers

Design &
Construction

electrical labeling
- label switches, breakers and check for accessibility

Design &
Construction

inspections
- schedule for fire, health departments, other

Design &
Construction

building & equipment plans


- retain full set of plans for operational files

Design &
Construction

walk-through with contractor


- create initial punch list

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

Activity

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

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Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Category

Category

Months
Prior To
Opening

Design &
Construction

Design &
Construction

Design &
Construction

exterior cleanup
- parking lot, landscaping, building, windows

Design &
Construction

final clean
- interior & exterior of building

Design &
Construction

wash windows

preliminary equipment requirements


- create a list of the equipment needed

Activity

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

beverage service
- set up installation of post mix system, coffee, iced tea
update construction punch list

Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

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Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Category

Category

Months
Prior To
Opening

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

equipment lists
- kitchen, bar, dining room, bar, office

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

lease or purchase kitchen equipment


- shop equipment leasing companies

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

safe for office


- determine type & order

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

soda system installation


- select vendor & set up installation date

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

phone system
- phone lines for office, fax, kitchen, hostess station
- pagers, cell phones, fire & burglar alarms
- internet access, service provider

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

interior signs
- menu boards, restrooms, fire exit, hand wash, wait to be seated

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

office equipment
- copier, fax, computer, printer, calculators

office furniture
- desk, chairs, filing cabinet, shelving

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

Activity

Status

secure a receiving scale

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

restrooms
- hand towel/dryer dispensers, soap dispensers, hand soap,
baby changing tables

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

janitorial equipment
- wet floor signs, mops, buckets, vacuum
- trash cans, cordless dust pan

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

emergency equipment procedures


- determine emergency shut-off steps
- label equipment

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

equipment tests
- test each piece with supplier prior to training

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Page 12of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Category

Category

Months
Prior To
Opening

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

kitchen clock
- purchase & install

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

kitchen toolkit
- purchase & designate location store

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

ansul system
- reinspect

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

repair and maint binder for all equipment


- prepare repair & maintenance binder for operating instructions, manuals
- mail in warranty cards

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

storage shelves
- clean, organize & label; walk-in, freezer, dry storage

calibrate temperatures on equipment


- fryers, griddle, oven, stove, other

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,

1
1
1
1

Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,

Fixtures &
Equipment

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

Activity

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

check walk-in & refrigeration temperatures


final clean & sanitize walk-in, freezer
receive furniture
- tables, chairs, desk tops, benches, patio furniture
test all equipment
complete equipment warranty cards
final clean all equipment
hang pictures, wall decor
run ice machine
- empty/sanitize/refill
- find ice company for backup

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

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Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Category

Category

Months
Prior To
Opening

Activity

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Legal & Finance

12

financing
- investigate potential sources for startup capital
- savings, family, friends, banks, SBA, investors

Legal & Finance

12

business plan
- begin drafting your business plan

Legal & Finance

12

capital/construction/opening budget
- estimate total startup cost of project through opening day
- incorporate this into business plan

Legal & Finance

11

list of possible names for restaurant


- solicit ideas from friend, relatives

Legal & Finance

10

financial feasibility
- begin establishing preliminary financial assumptions
- sales, operating costs, capital costs, number of employees, etc.
- refer to NRA's Industry Operation's Report for industry averages

Legal & Finance

attorney
- find firms with restaurant experience
- get & check references

Legal & Finance

business entity
- consider corporation, LLC, partnership, limited partnership
- seek guidance from CPA/attorney

Legal & Finance

list work history


- prepare and include in business plan

Legal & Finance

review financial projections


- have accountant review
- have experienced restaurant professionals review your financials

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

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Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Category

Category

Months
Prior To
Opening

Legal & Finance

select attorney
- draft/file corporate documents
- review/negotiate lease agreement

Legal & Finance

sales to investment analysis


- estimate total capital costs & compare to projected annual sales
- goal is to have minimum 1.5 to 1 sales to investment ratio in leasehold
- goal is to have minimum 1 to 1 ratio when land & building is owned

Legal & Finance

business plan
- complete business plan

Legal & Finance

capital/construction/opening budget
- update projections with actual bids/current estimates

Legal & Finance

personal financial statement


- prepare / update your personal financial statement

Legal & Finance

buy-sell agreement
- attorney prepares if you have partners/investors
- consider insurance to fund

Legal & Finance

landlord approvals
- determine what items require landlord approval
- plans, signage, other

Legal & Finance

line of credit
- set up working capital line of credit with bank

Activity

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

Legal & Finance


Legal & Finance
Legal & Finance
Legal & Finance
Legal & Finance

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

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Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Category

Category

Months
Prior To
Opening

Activity

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

Legal & Finance


Legal & Finance
Legal & Finance
Legal & Finance
Legal & Finance
Legal & Finance
Food & Beverage

draft list of available suppliers


- create list of suppliers for food, beverages & supplies

Food & Beverage

beer
- decide what beers to stock

Food & Beverage

food inventory
- create master inventory list of all ingredients/products to stock

Food & Beverage

liquor
- determine well/premium/super premium brands

Food & Beverage

liquor, beer & wine inventory


- create inventory worksheets for taking physical inventories

Food & Beverage

price menu
- determine final price points on all menu items

Food & Beverage

kitchen bible
- begin building recipe binder & laminated recipe card for menu items
- prepare recipe cards for all batch recipes

Food & Beverage

wine list
- design & print
- include in main menu

Food & Beverage

HACCAP training
- determine local/state certification requirements
- arrange for manager/employee certification

Food & Beverage

menus
- covers & inserts, to-go, catering, children's

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

Page 16of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Category

Category

Months
Prior To
Opening

Food & Beverage

initial food order


- prepare & place initial order
- request free samples from suppliers to test
- have sufficient quantities for training

Food & Beverage

take photographs of menu items


- for display in kitchen area

Food & Beverage

initial alcohol order


- prepare & place initial order

Activity

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

Food & Beverage


Food & Beverage
Food & Beverage
Food & Beverage
Food & Beverage
competitive analysis
- create list of competitors
- obtain sample menus for research & reference

Marketing

Marketing

menu boards & pictures


- determine type, design, order
- pictures of key menu items bundled with side & beverage

Marketing

order banners
- NOW HIRING /COMING SOON / NOW OPEN

Marketing

gift certificates
- design & print
- program gift certificate sales keys into POS

Marketing

local charities
- choose which to support

Marketing

printing
- stationary, envelopes, labels, business cards
- invitations for opening parties

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

Page 17of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Category

Category

Months
Prior To
Opening

Marketing

public relations for opening


- send out press releases to local media outlets

Marketing

opening party(s)
- press event, VIPs, contractors & suppliers
- create guest lists, send invitations

Operations

visit restaurants with similar offerings


- take notes

Operations

menu & recipes


- narrow menu offerings
- test recipes
- use test kitchen

Operations

table mix & arrangement


- determine mix of 2 top, 4 top, round, booths
- determine table positions and numbers

Operations

insurance
- general liability, liquor liability, worker's comp, group medical

Operations

hours of operation
- determine for each day

Activity

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

Marketing
Marketing
Marketing
Marketing
Marketing
Marketing
Marketing

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

Page 18of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Category

Category

Months
Prior To
Opening

Operations

checklists
- prepare opening, closing, shift change checklists for all stations

Operations

guest call system


- determine system to use
- pagers, sound system, other

Operations

happy hour
- determine special, prices, food
- check state/local laws regarding happy hour/discount programs

Operations

menu analysis
- calculate raw food cost on all menu items
- rank items by gross profit margin

Operations

prep lists with pars


- create prep lists with par levels

Operations

product specs
- create detailed product specs for all food products
- grade, size, packaging, brand, etc.

Operations

create reservation policy


- consider program to place names on wait list only

Operations

station setup sheets with pars


- for kitchen & dining room

Operations

customer comment cards


- design & print
- create procedures for receiving & responding

Operations

dining room cleaning


- carpet, flooring, rest rooms
- select outside vendor

Operations

hood/kitchen cleaning
- select approved vendor

Operations

landscaping/lawn services
- select approved vendor

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

Activity

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

Page 19of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Category

Category

Months
Prior To
Opening

Operations

emergency exit procedures


- determine procedures, post maps
- discuss in safety meetings with staff

Operations

bulletin board
- for employee schedule, mandatory postings

Operations

children's amenities
- menu, crayons, coloring book, high chairs, booster seats, balloons

Operations

cleaning & maintenance schedules


- set up schedules & procedures

Operations

emergency numbers
- map, directions to hospital
- make arrangements with local clinic

Operations

entertainment
- obtain permits if required
- create list of potential entertainers

Operations

floor maintenance
- ongoing floor maintenance procedures
- purchase cleaning / polishing supplies

Operations

valet parking
- valet stand
- key control system

Operations

approved vendor list


- create master list
- include primary & backup vendors

Operations

birthday specials
- determine policy, special desserts, b-day song, other

Operations

seating chart
- create seating chart diagram with wait staff sections

Operations

initial food, beverage & supplies orders


- determine quantities for training, mock shifts, pre-opening activities

Operations

payroll processing
- outsource to ADP, Paychex, other

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

Activity

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

Page 20of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Category

Category

Months
Prior To
Opening

Operations

music
- satellite radio

Operations

chemicals
- select approved vendor

Operations

grease trap
- select approved vendor

Operations

knife & blade sharpening


- perform in-house or use outside service

Operations

monthly accounting
- determine cycle
- use industry standard chart of accounts
- outside accounting service or in-house bookkeeper

Operations

pest control
- select approved vendor

Operations

trash disposal
- select approved vendor

Operations

window washing
- do in-house or outsource
- select approved vendor

Operations

building repairs
- select approved vendors

Operations

laundry & linen


- select approved vendor

Operations

order & delivery schedule


- prepare weekly schedule with each vendor's order & deliver dates

Operations

padlocks for cooler doors


- create control system for access & keys
- limit access to storage rooms to deliveries & requisition into production

Operations

deposit bags
- obtain from bank

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

Activity

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

Page 21of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Category

Category

Months
Prior To
Opening

Operations

hostess stand supplies


- reservation book, call clock, pencils, notebooks, kid's stuff

Operations

light levels
- determine for each meal period
- label light switches

Operations

change order
- prepare initial change order; change & small bills

Operations

check inventory levels


- on all food, beverage, paper & supplies
- prepare orders for opening week

Operations

Activity

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

opening inventory
- take full physical inventory on all food & beverage items night before
opening
- necessary to calculate accurate food & beverage costs after opening

Operations
Operations
Operations
Operations
Operations
Operations
Operations
Operations
Operations
Operations

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

Page 22of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Category

Category

Months
Prior To
Opening

Activity

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

Operations

Personnel

employee benefits
- determine insurance coverage
- vacation, meals, comps, tuition reimbursement, other

Personnel

employee job descriptions


- create for all staff & management positions

Personnel

management team
- start interviewing/selection process

Personnel

organizational chart
- create organizational chart for restaurant

Personnel

employee handbook
- create to document and communicate all employee & employment
practices

Personnel

Personnel

management training materials


- personnel hiring, training & management
- operations
- administrative

Personnel

master training schedule


- create schedule for staffing training leading up to opening day

Personnel

sidework procedures & schedules


- create server/front-of-house sidework checklists

Personnel

staff pay scales


- determine starting pay scales for each position
- determine employee review/raise policies

Personnel

staffing needs
- determine number of new hires needed by position
- plan for turnover, hire 20% more than you think you need

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

employee training manuals


- create for all positions

Page 23of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Category

Category

Months
Prior To
Opening

Activity

Personnel

employee recruiting
- newspaper ads
- recruiting
- word of mouth
- bonus for referrals
- plan for turnover

Personnel

pre-opening interview site


- temporary office
- equip with phone, furniture, hiring/selection forms

Personnel

food safety training


- purchase food safety training materials/videos
- contact state or National Restauant Association

Status

assemble new employee materials


- application forms
- uniforms
- W-4, I-9 forms
- employee handbook, job descriptions
- orientation & training checklists
employee files
- set up for employment application, status changes, other personnel
records

Personnel

Personnel

Personnel

OSHA
- review OSHA standards with managers

Personnel

alcoholic beverage server certification


- determine state/local requirements
- assign employee(s) for certification course

Personnel

HACCAP training / certification


- assign employee(s) for certification course

Personnel

safety checklist & audit


- create safety checklist & perform safety audit

Personnel

wine training program


- arrange for wine supplier to provide

Personnel

Personnel

safety & first aid training


- conduct training program for all employees

Personnel

conduct a mock service

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

begin staff training

Page 24of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Category

Category

Months
Prior To
Opening

Personnel

finalize opening week employee schedules


- overstaff
- plan for turnover

Supplies

uniforms
- finalize design; kitchen, service, bar, host staffs, managers

Supplies

dishroom items
- bus carts, bus tubs, glass racks, tray racks
- chemicals, detergents

Supplies

smallware & kitchen utensils


- source, specs, bid order

dining room
- high chairs
- booster seats
- serving trays, tray stands

bar
- blender
- ice machine
- glass washer
- shakers, strainers, spoons, bottle openers, corkscrew
- jiggers
- scoops
- bar mats
- pitchers

Activity

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

Personnel
Personnel
Personnel
Personnel
Personnel

Supplies

Supplies

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

Page 25of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Category

Category

Months
Prior To
Opening

Supplies

tabletop items
- tableware, flatware, glassware, sugar caddies, table tents, vases
- salt & pepper shakers

Supplies

first aid kit


- emergency burn kit

Supplies

Activity

Supplies

Supplies

linen
- table cloths, napkins, bar & kitchen towels

initial paper good order


- napkins, take-out, delivery, coasters, doggie bags
- straws, cups, lids
- filters, butcher pager
- patty paper, food wrap film, aluminum foil
- clear trash can liners

janitorial supplies
- carpet, tile, floor cleaner, spot remover
- gum solvent, liquid hand soap, paper towels, toilet paper
- windex, paper towels
- "Wet Floor" signs

Supplies

Status

tip trays, check presentation folders

initial chemicals order


- degreasers, drain treatment
- disinfectants, sanitizers
- floor care solutions
- handcare
- cleaners for dishroom/restroom/dining room

Supplies

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Supplies

Supplies

Supplies

Supplies

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

Page 26of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Category

Category

Months
Prior To
Opening

Activity

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

Supplies

Supplies

Supplies

Supplies

Supplies

Supplies

Supplies

Supplies

POS system
- list requirements
- start evaluation/demonstration process

Technology

POS system
- make POS decision
- set up menu items & prices
- decide on comps & discount categories
- set up essential reports

Technology

POS phone line


- dedicated line for charge approvals

Technology

website
- register domain name
- contact web design firm

Technology

computer software
- office, scheduling, food management

Technology

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

Page 27of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Category

Category

Months
Prior To
Opening

Technology

Technology

Technology

Activity

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

phone on hold message


- select service provider
- message/music
internet service provider
POS
- set up installation & /register

Technology
Technology
Technology
Technology
Technology

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

Page 28of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Month
Months
Prior To
Opening

Category

Activity

12

begin interviewing professional service providers


- attorney, accountant, architect, designer, insurance agent, real estate
Administration broker

12

business plan
Legal & Finance - begin drafting your business plan

12

capital/construction/opening budget
Legal & Finance - estimate total startup cost of project through opening day
- incorporate this into business plan

12

financing
Legal & Finance - investigate potential sources for startup capital
- savings, family, friends, banks, SBA, investors

12

Design &
Construction

market research
- study local markets
- create list of the most promising areas

12

Concept
Development

research competitive landscape


- which concepts are most successful

12

Concept
Development

research market
- look for opportunities or concept gaps

12

Concept
Development

research successful concepts


- collect info on appealing concepts

11

Administration

11

Concept
Development

determine menu price range


- study price points of restaurants in your area

11

Design &
Construction

graphic artist
- find a graphic artist to work with

11

11

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

collect information on required permits and licenses


- health dept, business license, liquor license, other

list of possible names for restaurant


Legal & Finance - solicit ideas from friend, relatives
Concept
Development

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

preliminary food & bar menus


- begin collecting menu/recipe ideas

Page 29of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Month
Months
Prior To
Opening

Category

10

Design &
Construction

architect
- check references, create short list of quality firms

10

Concept
Development

continue to define concept


- type of service, price range, menu

10

Design &
Construction

design firms
- check references, create short list of quality firms

10

Design &
Construction

determine facility requirements


- overall square footage needs, seats, parking, etc

10

Design &
Construction

10

Administration

Status

Design &
Construction

general contractors
- check references, create short list of quality firms
identify insurance needs
- building, liability, workers comp, other

site selection criteria


- determine site criteria
- demographics
- number of seats
- traffic count
- overall space requirements

attorney
Legal & Finance - find firms with restaurant experience
- get & check references

business entity
Legal & Finance - consider corporation, LLC, partnership, limited partnership
- seek guidance from CPA/attorney

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

financial feasibility
- begin establishing preliminary financial assumptions
Legal & Finance - sales, operating costs, capital costs, number of employees, etc.
- refer to NRA's Industry Operation's Report for industry averages

10

10

Activity

Marketing

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

competitive analysis
- create list of competitors
- obtain sample menus for research & reference

Page 30of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Month
Months
Prior To
Opening

Category

Design &
Construction

competitive analysis
- examine strengths & weaknesses of competitors
- evaluate relative success of restaurant in local market
- what dining segments are not being well-served

Concept
Development

differentiation
- determine your unique selling proposition

Design &
Construction

find a real estate broker


- find a broker with a specialty or focus on restaurant sites

Activity

Status

list work history


Legal & Finance - prepare and include in business plan
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

preliminary equipment requirements


- create a list of the equipment needed

review financial projections


Legal & Finance - have accountant review
- have experienced restaurant professionals review your financials

select attorney
Legal & Finance - draft/file corporate documents
- review/negotiate lease agreement

Design &
Construction

square footage
- determine optimum square footage needed
- include kitchen, dining room, storage

Design &
Construction

ansul system
- research local requirements

Design &
Construction

bar seating
- estimate potential bar revenue
- preliminary layout of bar

Design &
Construction

building/fire/safety codes
- make list of all applicable code requirements

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

business plan
Legal & Finance - complete business plan

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

Page 31of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Month
Months
Prior To
Opening
8

Category

Activity

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

capital/construction/opening budget
Legal & Finance - update projections with actual bids/current estimates

Concept
Development

concept validation/testing
- interview potential customers

Design &
Construction

conduct a roof inspection

Design &
Construction

construction costs
- get estimates for build out from several contractors

Concept
Development

determine restaurant name


- do a trade name search to confirm availability

Design &
Construction

electrical service
- evaluate adequacy of available power for equipment needs

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

Concept
Development

finalize concept
- draft concept statement fully describing concept

Design &
Construction

floor plan
- obtain or create a floor plan of existing space
- specifically include load-bearing walls

Design &
Construction

floor slope evaluation


- consider slope on handicap ramp OSHA requirements
- safety considerations for staff & guests

Design &
Construction

handicap access/requirements

Design &
Construction

health department
- verify no health-related conditions present that could pose problems

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

Design &
Construction

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

equipment lists
- kitchen, bar, dining room, bar, office

lease or purchase kitchen equipment


- shop equipment leasing companies
lighting fixtures
- inspect interior & exterior lighting including parking lot

Page 32of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Month
Months
Prior To
Opening

Category

Design &
Construction

list of existing kitchen equipment


- obtain detailed list
- evaluate condition

Design &
Construction

number of tables/seats
- estimate potential seating/revenue potential of dining room

Design &
Construction

parking lot
- is there adequate parking
- what is the ratio of seats to parking spaces, is there a local minimum

Activity

personal financial statement


Legal & Finance - prepare / update your personal financial statement

sales to investment analysis


- estimate total capital costs & compare to projected annual sales
Legal & Finance - goal is to have minimum 1.5 to 1 sales to investment ratio in leasehold
- goal is to have minimum 1 to 1 ratio when land & building is owned

Design &
Construction

select architect/designer

Design &
Construction

sewer lines
- evaluate adequacy; size, capacity, age, condition

Design &
Construction

termite report
- have property inspected for termite/pest problems

Design &
Construction

traffic patterns
- evaluate adequacy of traffic flow around and through space

Operations

Design &
Construction

zoning requirements
- verity that there are no zoning problems with your concept/plans

Design &
Construction

architectural/design
- review & approve

Administration

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

visit restaurants with similar offerings


- take notes

banking
- open and fund construction account

Page 33of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Month
Months
Prior To
Opening
7

Category

Activity

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

buy-sell agreement
Legal & Finance - attorney prepares if you have partners/investors
- consider insurance to fund

Design &
Construction

construction timeline
- time for each phase, completion date

Design &
Construction

contractor
- select a contractor

Design &
Construction

design-exterior
- siding, ramps, windows, awnings, lighting

Design &
Construction

design-interior
- kitchen, bar, dining room, bar, office, lighting

Design &
Construction

electrical service
- permits, procedures, plans, installation, inspection

Design &
Construction

gas lines
- adequate size, capacity, age, condition

Design &
Construction

gas service
- permits, procedures, plans, installation, inspection

Design &
Construction

grease trap
- permits, procedures, plans, installation, inspection

Design &
Construction

HVAC system
- inspect/evaluate condition

Design &
Construction

Interior painting

landlord approvals
Legal & Finance - determine what items require landlord approval
- plans, signage, other

Administration

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

liquor license
- investigate application process/availability of license

Page 34of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Month
Months
Prior To
Opening

Category

Operations

Design &
Construction

outside seating
- design, available seating, permits, w/w station, cost feasibility

Design &
Construction

secure builder's risk insurance

Design &
Construction

secure general liability insurance

Design &
Construction

select type of flooring

Design &
Construction

start demolition work

Design &
Construction

utilities
- determine utility company options
- choose provider

Design &
Construction

waste water
- permits, procedures, plans, installation, inspection

Design &
Construction

water service
- permits, procedures, plans, installation, inspection

Design &
Construction

acoustical ceilings

Design &
Construction

address back door


- peep hole, buzzer for deliveries, emergency bar

Design &
Construction

air conditioning/circulation

Design &
Construction

apply design elements


- logo, colors, type style

Activity

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

menu & recipes


- narrow menu offerings
- test recipes
- use test kitchen

Administration apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN)

Design &
Construction

bathroom partitions & accessories

Design &
Construction

begin carpentry

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

Page 35of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Month
Months
Prior To
Opening

Category

Design &
Construction

begin through list of inspectors


- building, fire, electrical, plumbing, health

Design &
Construction

burglar alarm system

Design &
Construction

door locks
- deadbolts, re-key locks prior to opening

Design &
Construction

door/exits hardware
- alarms, push bars, emergency escape

Design &
Construction

doors, frames & hardware

Design &
Construction

drywall

Design &
Construction

electrical/lighting

Design &
Construction

exterior painting

Design &
Construction

flooring install

Design &
Construction

kitchen fire control


- design & setup system

Design &
Construction

masonry

Design &
Construction

mechanical

Design &
Construction

order canopies & awnings

Design &
Construction

parking lot
- resurfacing, control access during construction

Design &
Construction

paving

Design &
Construction

plumbing

Design &
Construction

roofing & waterproofing

Design &
Construction

smoke detectors
- wire to alarm system

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

Activity

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

Page 36of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Month
Months
Prior To
Opening

Category

Design &
Construction

Design &
Construction

Design &
Construction

Administration

Design &
Construction

Operations

Design &
Construction

landscaping
- design & bid contract

Design &
Construction

lighting for parking lot

Operations

Activity

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

sound/music system
sprinkler system
- obtain requirements
- have wired to alarm system
steel/railings
create a credit application sheet for vendors
- include references
fire extinguishers
- install with visible operating instructions
insurance
- general liability, liquor liability, worker's comp, group medical

table mix & arrangement


- determine mix of 2 top, 4 top, round, booths
- determine table positions and numbers

draft list of available suppliers


Food & Beverage
- create list of suppliers for food, beverages & supplies

Personnel

employee benefits
- determine insurance coverage
- vacation, meals, comps, tuition reimbursement, other

Personnel

employee job descriptions


- create for all staff & management positions

Operations

hours of operation
- determine for each day

Administration

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

liquor license
- apply for
- hiring professional assistance if necessary

Page 37of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Month
Months
Prior To
Opening

Category

Personnel

management team
- start interviewing/selection process

Marketing

menu boards & pictures


- determine type, design, order
- pictures of key menu items bundled with side & beverage

Marketing

order banners
- NOW HIRING /COMING SOON / NOW OPEN

Personnel

organizational chart
- create organizational chart for restaurant

Technology

POS system
- list requirements
- start evaluation/demonstration process

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

safe for office


- determine type & order

Activity

Status

beer
Food & Beverage
- decide what beers to stock
checklists
- prepare opening, closing, shift change checklists for all stations

Operations

Design &
Construction

Operations

create reservation policy


- consider program to place names on wait list only

Operations

customer comment cards


- design & print
- create procedures for receiving & responding

Operations

dining room cleaning


- carpet, flooring, rest rooms
- select outside vendor

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Personnel

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

cleaning crew
- bid & select vendor for initial & final clean

employee handbook
- create to document and communicate all employee & employment
practices

Page 38of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Month
Months
Prior To
Opening

Category

Personnel

Design &
Construction

Activity
employee training manuals
- create for all positions

food inventory
Food & Beverage
- create master inventory list of all ingredients/products to stock
Marketing

gift certificates
- design & print
- program gift certificate sales keys into POS

Operations

guest call system


- determine system to use
- pagers, sound system, other

Operations

happy hour
- determine special, prices, food
- check state/local laws regarding happy hour/discount programs

Operations

hood/kitchen cleaning
- select approved vendor

Status

exterior signage
- primary, handicap, reserved, valet, hours of operation, delivery times

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

kitchen bible
Food & Beverage - begin building recipe binder & laminated recipe card for menu items
- prepare recipe cards for all batch recipes
Operations

landscaping/lawn services
- select approved vendor

line of credit
Legal & Finance - set up working capital line of credit with bank

liquor
Food & Beverage
- determine well/premium/super premium brands

liquor, beer & wine inventory


Food & Beverage
- create inventory worksheets for taking physical inventories

Marketing

local charities
- choose which to support

Personnel

management training materials


- personnel hiring, training & management
- operations
- administrative

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

Page 39of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Month
Months
Prior To
Opening

Category

Personnel

master training schedule


- create schedule for staffing training leading up to opening day

Operations

menu analysis
- calculate raw food cost on all menu items
- rank items by gross profit margin

Technology

POS phone line


- dedicated line for charge approvals

Technology

POS system
- make POS decision
- set up menu items & prices
- decide on comps & discount categories
- set up essential reports

Operations

prep lists with pars


- create prep lists with par levels

Activity

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

price menu
Food & Beverage - determine final price points on all menu items

Marketing

printing
- stationary, envelopes, labels, business cards
- invitations for opening parties

Operations

product specs
- create detailed product specs for all food products
- grade, size, packaging, brand, etc.

Marketing

public relations for opening


- send out press releases to local media outlets

Personnel

sidework procedures & schedules


- create server/front-of-house sidework checklists

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

soda system installation


- select vendor & set up installation date

Personnel

staff pay scales


- determine starting pay scales for each position
- determine employee review/raise policies

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

Page 40of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Month
Months
Prior To
Opening

Category

Personnel

staffing needs
- determine number of new hires needed by position
- plan for turnover, hire 20% more than you think you need

Operations

station setup sheets with pars


- for kitchen & dining room

Design &
Construction

Supplies

Technology

Status

supplier, contractor, sub-contractor contacts


- create master phone & contact list with emergency numbers

uniforms
- finalize design; kitchen, service, bar, host staffs, managers
website
- register domain name
- contact web design firm

wine list
Food & Beverage - design & print
- include in main menu

Administration

accounting software
- select in-house accounting software
- format chart of accounts consistent with industry standards

Administration

alcoholic beverage server certification


- determine requirements

Operations

approved vendor list


- create master list
- include primary & backup vendors

Personnel

assemble new employee materials


- application forms
- uniforms
- W-4, I-9 forms
- employee handbook, job descriptions
- orientation & training checklists

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

timekeeping system
Administration - decide on system type (time cards, manual, POS)

Activity

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

Page 41of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Month
Months
Prior To
Opening

Category

Administration

Activity

Status

banking
- open operating, payroll, reserve accounts
- order checks, deposit slips

Supplies

bar
- blender
- ice machine
- glass washer
- shakers, strainers, spoons, bottle openers, corkscrew
- jiggers
- scoops
- bar mats
- pitchers

Operations

birthday specials
- determine policy, special desserts, b-day song, other

Design &
Construction

Operations

building repairs
- select approved vendors

Operations

bulletin board
- for employee schedule, mandatory postings

Operations

chemicals
- select approved vendor

Operations

children's amenities
- menu, crayons, coloring book, high chairs, booster seats, balloons

Operations

cleaning & maintenance schedules


- set up schedules & procedures

Technology

computer software
- office, scheduling, food management

building & equipment plans


- retain full set of plans for operational files

credit card merchant accounts


- select vendor and open account setup for MC/Visa, Amex, Discover,
Administration Others

Administration

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

deposit procedures
- set up processes, pick ups, drops, etc

Page 42of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Month
Months
Prior To
Opening

Category

Supplies

dining room
- high chairs
- booster seats
- serving trays, tray stands

Supplies

dishroom items
- bus carts, bus tubs, glass racks, tray racks
- chemicals, detergents

Design &
Construction

Operations

emergency exit procedures


- determine procedures, post maps
- discuss in safety meetings with staff

Operations

emergency numbers
- map, directions to hospital
- make arrangements with local clinic

Personnel

Activity

Status

electrical labeling
- label switches, breakers and check for accessibility

employee files
- set up for employment application, status changes, other personnel
records

Personnel

employee recruiting
- newspaper ads
- recruiting
- word of mouth
- bonus for referrals
- plan for turnover

Operations

entertainment
- obtain permits if required
- create list of potential entertainers

Supplies

Operations

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

first aid kit


- emergency burn kit
floor maintenance
- ongoing floor maintenance procedures
- purchase cleaning / polishing supplies

Page 43of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Month
Months
Prior To
Opening

Category

Personnel

food safety training


- purchase food safety training materials/videos
- contact state or National Restauant Association

Operations

grease trap
- select approved vendor

Activity

Status

HACCAP training
Food & Beverage - determine local/state certification requirements
- arrange for manager/employee certification
initial food, beverage & supplies orders
- determine quantities for training, mock shifts, pre-opening activities

Operations

Design &
Construction

Administration

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

interior signs
- menu boards, restrooms, fire exit, hand wash, wait to be seated

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

janitorial equipment
- wet floor signs, mops, buckets, vacuum
- trash cans, cordless dust pan

Operations

knife & blade sharpening


- perform in-house or use outside service

Operations

laundry & linen


- select approved vendor

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

inspections
- schedule for fire, health departments, other
insurance
- verify with your agent that all policies are ready to go live

menus
Food & Beverage
- covers & inserts, to-go, catering, children's

Operations

monthly accounting
- determine cycle
- use industry standard chart of accounts
- outside accounting service or in-house bookkeeper

Operations

music
- satellite radio

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

Page 44of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Month
Months
Prior To
Opening

Category

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

office equipment
- copier, fax, computer, printer, calculators

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

office furniture
- desk, chairs, filing cabinet, shelving

Operations

payroll processing
- outsource to ADP, Paychex, other

Administration

Operations

Administration

Technology

phone on hold message


- select service provider
- message/music

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

phone system
- phone lines for office, fax, kitchen, hostess station
- pagers, cell phones, fire & burglar alarms
- internet access, service provider

Personnel

pre-opening interview site


- temporary office
- equip with phone, furniture, hiring/selection forms

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

restrooms
- hand towel/dryer dispensers, soap dispensers, hand soap,
baby changing tables

Operations

seating chart
- create seating chart diagram with wait staff sections

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

Supplies

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

Activity

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

payroll processing
- select vendor and open account
pest control
- select approved vendor
petty cash
- setup petty cash fund for cash payments
- create petty cash reimbursement form

secure a receiving scale


smallware & kitchen utensils
- source, specs, bid order

Page 45of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Month
Months
Prior To
Opening

Category

Supplies

Supplies

Operations

trash disposal
- select approved vendor

Operations

valet parking
- valet stand
- key control system

Design &
Construction

Operations

Administration

Personnel

alcoholic beverage server certification


- determine state/local requirements
- assign employee(s) for certification course

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

ansul system
- reinspect

Administration

Personnel

Design &
Construction

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

calibrate temperatures on equipment


- fryers, griddle, oven, stove, other

Administration

cash tills
- get change & small bills from bank

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

Activity

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

tabletop items
- tableware, flatware, glassware, sugar caddies, table tents, vases
- salt & pepper shakers
tip trays, check presentation folders

walk-through with contractor


- create initial punch list
window washing
- do in-house or outsource
- select approved vendor
accounting/Bookkeeping
- have CPA review sales, deposit, payroll,etc before launch

bank supplies
- deposit stamp, deposit bags, deposit slips
begin staff training
beverage service
- set up installation of post mix system, coffee, iced tea

Page 46of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Month
Months
Prior To
Opening

Category

Operations

change order
- prepare initial change order; change & small bills

Operations

check inventory levels


- on all food, beverage, paper & supplies
- prepare orders for opening week

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,

Activity

complete equipment warranty cards

1
1

Operations

deposit bags
- obtain from bank

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

emergency equipment procedures


- determine emergency shut-off steps
- label equipment

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

equipment tests
- test each piece with supplier prior to training

Design &
Construction

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

conduct a mock service

exterior cleanup
- parking lot, landscaping, building, windows
final clean & sanitize walk-in, freezer
final clean all equipment
final clean
- interior & exterior of building

Design &
Construction

Personnel

finalize opening week employee schedules


- overstaff
- plan for turnover

Personnel

HACCAP training / certification


- assign employee(s) for certification course

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

Operations

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

Status

check walk-in & refrigeration temperatures

Fixtures &
Equipment
Personnel

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

hang pictures, wall decor


hostess stand supplies
- reservation book, call clock, pencils, notebooks, kid's stuff

Page 47of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Month
Months
Prior To
Opening
1

Category

Activity

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

initial alcohol order


Food & Beverage - prepare & place initial order

Supplies

initial chemicals order


- degreasers, drain treatment
- disinfectants, sanitizers
- floor care solutions
- handcare
- cleaners for dishroom/restroom/dining room

initial food order


Food & Beverage - prepare & place initial order
- request free samples from suppliers to test
- have sufficient quantities for training

Supplies

Technology

initial paper good order


- napkins, take-out, delivery, coasters, doggie bags
- straws, cups, lids
- filters, butcher pager
- patty paper, food wrap film, aluminum foil
- clear trash can liners
internet service provider

janitorial supplies
- carpet, tile, floor cleaner, spot remover
- gum solvent, liquid hand soap, paper towels, toilet paper
- windex, paper towels
- "Wet Floor" signs

Supplies

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

kitchen clock
- purchase & install

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

kitchen toolkit
- purchase & designate location store

Operations

light levels
- determine for each meal period
- label light switches

Supplies

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

linen
- table cloths, napkins, bar & kitchen towels

Page 48of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Month
Months
Prior To
Opening

Category

Operations

Marketing

opening party(s)
- press event, VIPs, contractors & suppliers
- create guest lists, send invitations

Operations

order & delivery schedule


- prepare weekly schedule with each vendor's order & deliver dates

Personnel

OSHA
- review OSHA standards with managers

Operations

padlocks for cooler doors


- create control system for access & keys
- limit access to storage rooms to deliveries & requisition into production

Administration

Technology

Administration

Administration

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

repair and maint binder for all equipment


- prepare repair & maintenance binder for operating instructions,
manuals
- mail in warranty cards

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

run ice machine


- empty/sanitize/refill
- find ice company for backup

Personnel

safety & first aid training


- conduct training program for all employees

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

Activity
opening inventory
- take full physical inventory on all food & beverage items night before
opening
- necessary to calculate accurate food & beverage costs after opening

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

permits, licenses, inspections, approvals


- verify that all required licenses have been secured
POS
- set up installation & /register
POS/Merchant accounts
- test credit card approval/processing
receive final certificate of occupancy
receive furniture
- tables, chairs, desk tops, benches, patio furniture

Page 49of 50

Restaurant Opening Checklist


Sorted by Month
Months
Prior To
Opening

Category

Personnel

safety checklist & audit


- create safety checklist & perform safety audit

Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment

storage shelves
- clean, organize & label; walk-in, freezer, dry storage

1
1
1

Activity

Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date

Status

take photographs of menu items


Food & Beverage - for display in kitchen area
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Design &
Construction

Design &
Construction

Personnel

MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist

test all equipment


update construction punch list
wash windows
wine training program
- arrange for wine supplier to provide

Page 50of 50

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