Creating the Perfect Restaurant Checklist for a Smooth Operation in 2023

Running a restaurant is a challenging task. From the chaos of the kitchen (looking at you, The Bear) to the persistent paperwork, you’ve got many moving parts. And coordination must be flawless. But with a well-designed checklist, you can ensure that nothing falls through the cracks and that your restaurant runs smoothly.


Who needs a restaurant checklist?

A restaurant checklist is essential for any restaurant owner, manager or staff member. It can help ensure that all necessary tasks are completed before, during, and after service and that your restaurant runs efficiently. And what’s the best checklist for your restaurant business? Workflow – a no-code tool that allows you to create personalized lists and forms synced with your employee data.

The right checklist template is essential. With Workflow, create your own template or select one approved by industry leaders, like the vacation request Workflow, the employee onboarding Workflow and the employee expense Workflow

How do you create the best restaurant checklist?

1. Inventory management

Before service begins, taking inventory of all food, drink, and supplies is essential to ensure that you have enough to last through the shift. First, create a checklist of items that must be checked and restocked regularly, such as produce, meats, and cleaning supplies. Then, send the checklist to the relevant staff members. Only once they’ve completed the list can work begin.


2. Prepping the restaurant

Then, prep your restaurant. Before service begins, your restaurant must be clean, organized and ready for guests. Again, the checklist is your best friend. Ensure all equipment is in working order and all necessary utensils and tools are readily available.


3. Food prep

Of course, food preparation is critical. Accidentally using week-old fish isn’t going to cut it. Again, use a checklist to track dish preparation and ingredient management. Any team member that needs to be involved will be – Workflow will take care of that. It knows who your recipients are, so you don’t need to send the same forms repeatedly. This will help ensure that all dishes are prepared consistently and to the same high standards.

4. Closing and cleaning 

This step is essential. After service, ensuring the restaurant is cleaned and prepared for the next day is vital. It’s easy to miss things – maybe your oil isn’t changed, or your cutlery is unpolished. But you don’t want that – so create a checklist of tasks such as cleaning the kitchen, washing dishes, and restocking supplies. Ensure all equipment is turned off and the restaurant is secured before leaving. Again, Workflow will handle this so you don’t have to – only when your checklist is complete will your shifts end.

5. Implementing the checklist

Creating a checklist is only the first step; you also need to implement it. And for that, you need your staff onboard. First, ensure all staff members are familiar with the checklist and understand their roles and responsibilities. Then, regularly review and update the checklist to ensure it is relevant and practical. Using a checklist like Workflow can help ensure that your restaurant runs smoothly and efficiently.

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