Professional Documents
Culture Documents
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
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
Activity
Administration
12
Administration
11
Administration
10
Administration
banking
- open and fund construction account
Administration
liquor license
- investigate application process/availability of license
Administration
Administration
Administration
liquor license
- apply for
- hiring professional assistance if necessary
Administration
timekeeping system
- decide on system type (time cards, manual, POS)
Administration
Administration
banking
- open operating, payroll, reserve accounts
- order checks, deposit slips
Administration
payroll processing
- select vendor and open account
Administration
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
Page 2of 50
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
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
Administration
Administration
Administration
Administration
Administration
Administration
Administration
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Page 3of 50
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
Administration
Administration
Concept
Development
12
Concept
Development
12
research market
- look for opportunities or concept gaps
Concept
Development
12
Concept
Development
11
Concept
Development
11
Concept
Development
10
Concept
Development
differentiation
- determine your unique selling proposition
Concept
Development
concept validation/testing
- interview potential customers
Concept
Development
Concept
Development
finalize concept
- draft concept statement fully describing concept
Concept
Development
Concept
Development
Concept
Development
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Page 4of 50
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
Design &
Construction
10
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
Page 5of 50
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
Design &
Construction
square footage
- determine optimum square footage needed
- include kitchen, dining room, storage
Design &
Construction
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
Design &
Construction
lighting fixtures
- inspect interior & exterior lighting including parking lot
Design &
Construction
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
handicap access/requirements
Page 6of 50
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
select architect/designer
architectural/design
- review & approve
secure builder's risk insurance
Page 7of 50
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
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
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
Design &
Construction
masonry
Design &
Construction
mechanical
Design &
Construction
parking lot
- resurfacing, control access during construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
plumbing
Design &
Construction
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
begin carpentry
flooring install
paving
Page 9of 50
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
Design &
Construction
fire extinguishers
- install with visible operating instructions
Design &
Construction
landscaping
- design & bid contract
Design &
Construction
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
Design &
Construction
electrical labeling
- label switches, breakers and check for accessibility
Design &
Construction
inspections
- schedule for fire, health departments, other
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
Page 10of 50
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
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
Page 11of 50
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
equipment lists
- kitchen, bar, dining room, bar, office
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
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
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
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
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
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
storage shelves
- clean, organize & label; walk-in, freezer, dry storage
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
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Page 13of 50
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
12
business plan
- begin drafting your business plan
12
capital/construction/opening budget
- estimate total startup cost of project through opening day
- incorporate this into business plan
11
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
attorney
- find firms with restaurant experience
- get & check references
business entity
- consider corporation, LLC, partnership, limited partnership
- seek guidance from CPA/attorney
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Page 14of 50
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
select attorney
- draft/file corporate documents
- review/negotiate lease agreement
business plan
- complete business plan
capital/construction/opening budget
- update projections with actual bids/current estimates
buy-sell agreement
- attorney prepares if you have partners/investors
- consider insurance to fund
landlord approvals
- determine what items require landlord approval
- plans, signage, other
line of credit
- set up working capital line of credit with bank
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Page 15of 50
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
beer
- decide what beers to stock
food inventory
- create master inventory list of all ingredients/products to stock
liquor
- determine well/premium/super premium brands
price menu
- determine final price points on all menu items
kitchen bible
- begin building recipe binder & laminated recipe card for menu items
- prepare recipe cards for all batch recipes
wine list
- design & print
- include in main menu
HACCAP training
- determine local/state certification requirements
- arrange for manager/employee certification
menus
- covers & inserts, to-go, catering, children's
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Page 16of 50
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
Marketing
Marketing
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
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
Marketing
Marketing
opening party(s)
- press event, VIPs, contractors & suppliers
- create guest lists, send invitations
Operations
Operations
Operations
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
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
Operations
checklists
- prepare opening, closing, shift change checklists for all stations
Operations
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
Operations
product specs
- create detailed product specs for all food products
- grade, size, packaging, brand, etc.
Operations
Operations
Operations
Operations
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
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
Operations
Operations
bulletin board
- for employee schedule, mandatory postings
Operations
children's amenities
- menu, crayons, coloring book, high chairs, booster seats, balloons
Operations
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
Operations
birthday specials
- determine policy, special desserts, b-day song, other
Operations
seating chart
- create seating chart diagram with wait staff sections
Operations
Operations
payroll processing
- outsource to ADP, Paychex, other
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
Page 20of 50
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
Operations
music
- satellite radio
Operations
chemicals
- select approved vendor
Operations
grease trap
- select approved vendor
Operations
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
Operations
Operations
Operations
deposit bags
- obtain from bank
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
Page 21of 50
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
Operations
Operations
light levels
- determine for each meal period
- label light switches
Operations
change order
- prepare initial change order; change & small bills
Operations
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
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
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
Personnel
Personnel
Personnel
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
Page 23of 50
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
Activity
Personnel
employee recruiting
- newspaper ads
- recruiting
- word of mouth
- bonus for referrals
- plan for turnover
Personnel
Personnel
Status
Personnel
Personnel
Personnel
OSHA
- review OSHA standards with managers
Personnel
Personnel
Personnel
Personnel
Personnel
Personnel
Personnel
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Page 24of 50
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
Personnel
Supplies
uniforms
- finalize design; kitchen, service, bar, host staffs, managers
Supplies
dishroom items
- bus carts, bus tubs, glass racks, tray racks
- chemicals, detergents
Supplies
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
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
Supplies
tabletop items
- tableware, flatware, glassware, sugar caddies, table tents, vases
- salt & pepper shakers
Supplies
Supplies
Activity
Supplies
Supplies
linen
- table cloths, napkins, bar & kitchen towels
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
Supplies
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Supplies
Supplies
Supplies
Supplies
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Page 26of 50
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
Technology
website
- register domain name
- contact web design firm
Technology
computer software
- office, scheduling, food management
Technology
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Page 27of 50
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
Technology
Technology
Technology
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
Technology
Technology
Technology
Technology
Technology
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Page 28of 50
Category
Activity
12
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
12
Concept
Development
research market
- look for opportunities or concept gaps
12
Concept
Development
11
Administration
11
Concept
Development
11
Design &
Construction
graphic artist
- find a graphic artist to work with
11
11
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Page 29of 50
Category
10
Design &
Construction
architect
- check references, create short list of quality firms
10
Concept
Development
10
Design &
Construction
design firms
- check references, create short list of quality firms
10
Design &
Construction
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
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
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
Activity
Status
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
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
Design &
Construction
construction costs
- get estimates for build out from several contractors
Concept
Development
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
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
Page 32of 50
Category
Design &
Construction
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
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
banking
- open and fund construction account
Page 33of 50
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
Category
Operations
Design &
Construction
outside seating
- design, available seating, permits, w/w station, cost feasibility
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
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
Design &
Construction
air conditioning/circulation
Design &
Construction
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
begin carpentry
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Page 35of 50
Category
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
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
flooring install
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
masonry
Design &
Construction
mechanical
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
parking lot
- resurfacing, control access during construction
Design &
Construction
paving
Design &
Construction
plumbing
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
smoke detectors
- wire to alarm system
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
Page 36of 50
Category
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Administration
Design &
Construction
Operations
Design &
Construction
landscaping
- design & bid contract
Design &
Construction
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
Personnel
employee benefits
- determine insurance coverage
- vacation, meals, comps, tuition reimbursement, other
Personnel
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
Category
Personnel
management team
- start interviewing/selection process
Marketing
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
Activity
Status
beer
Food & Beverage
- decide what beers to stock
checklists
- prepare opening, closing, shift change checklists for all stations
Operations
Design &
Construction
Operations
Operations
Operations
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
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
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
Marketing
local charities
- choose which to support
Personnel
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Page 39of 50
Category
Personnel
Operations
menu analysis
- calculate raw food cost on all menu items
- rank items by gross profit margin
Technology
Technology
POS system
- make POS decision
- set up menu items & prices
- decide on comps & discount categories
- set up essential reports
Operations
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
Personnel
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Personnel
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Page 40of 50
Category
Personnel
staffing needs
- determine number of new hires needed by position
- plan for turnover, hire 20% more than you think you need
Operations
Design &
Construction
Supplies
Technology
Status
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
Operations
Personnel
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
timekeeping system
Administration - decide on system type (time cards, manual, POS)
Activity
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Page 41of 50
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
Technology
computer software
- office, scheduling, food management
Administration
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
deposit procedures
- set up processes, pick ups, drops, etc
Page 42of 50
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
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
Page 43of 50
Category
Personnel
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
Operations
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
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
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
phone system
- phone lines for office, fax, kitchen, hostess station
- pagers, cell phones, fire & burglar alarms
- internet access, service provider
Personnel
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
Page 45of 50
Category
Supplies
Supplies
Operations
trash disposal
- select approved vendor
Operations
valet parking
- valet stand
- key control system
Design &
Construction
Operations
Administration
Personnel
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
ansul system
- reinspect
Administration
Personnel
Design &
Construction
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
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
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
Category
Operations
change order
- prepare initial change order; change & small bills
Operations
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Activity
1
1
Operations
deposit bags
- obtain from bank
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
equipment tests
- test each piece with supplier prior to training
Design &
Construction
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
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
Personnel
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Operations
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Status
Fixtures &
Equipment
Personnel
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Page 47of 50
Category
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
Supplies
Supplies
Technology
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
Category
Operations
Marketing
opening party(s)
- press event, VIPs, contractors & suppliers
- create guest lists, send invitations
Operations
Personnel
OSHA
- review OSHA standards with managers
Operations
Administration
Technology
Administration
Administration
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Personnel
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
Page 49of 50
Category
Personnel
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
storage shelves
- clean, organize & label; walk-in, freezer, dry storage
1
1
1
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
Design &
Construction
Personnel
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Page 50of 50