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
Activity
Opening begin interviewing professional service providers
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
Administration
timekeeping system
- decide on system type (time cards, manual, POS)
Administration
Administration
Administration
Administration
Administration
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
liquor license
- apply for
- hiring professional assistance if necessary
banking
- open operating, payroll, reserve accounts
- order checks, deposit slips
payroll processing
- select vendor and open account
credit card merchant accounts
- select vendor and open account setup for MC/Visa, Amex, Discover,
Others
accounting software
- select in-house accounting software
- format chart of accounts consistent with industry standards
Page 3of 47
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 4of 47
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
Concept
Development
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Page 5of 47
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
Concept
Development
Concept
Development
Concept
Development
market research
- study local markets
- create list of the most promising areas
Design &
Construction
12
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
Design &
Construction
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
square footage
- determine optimum square footage needed
- include kitchen, dining room, storage
find a real estate broker
- find a broker with a specialty or focus on restaurant sites
Page 6of 47
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
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
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
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
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
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
handicap access/requirements
bar seating
- estimate potential bar revenue
- preliminary layout of bar
floor plan
- obtain or create a floor plan of existing space
- specifically include load-bearing walls
floor slope evaluation
- consider slope on handicap ramp OSHA requirements
- safety considerations for staff & guests
lighting fixtures
- inspect interior & exterior lighting including parking lot
list of existing kitchen equipment
- obtain detailed list
- evaluate condition
conduct a roof inspection
Page 7of 47
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
Design &
Construction
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
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
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
parking lot
- is there adequate parking
- what is the ratio of seats to parking spaces, is there a local minimum
select architect/designer
architectural/design
- review & approve
secure builder's risk insurance
Page 8of 47
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
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
Design &
Construction
7
6
6
6
6
6
6
6
Activity
Status
outside seating
- design, available seating, permits, w/w station, cost feasibility
utilities
- determine utility company options
- choose provider
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
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Page 9of 47
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
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
Design &
Construction
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
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
flooring install
paving
sprinkler system
- obtain requirements
- have wired to alarm system
Page 10of 47
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
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
Design &
Construction
beverage service
- set up installation of post mix system, coffee, iced tea
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
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Page 11of 47
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
equipment lists
- kitchen, bar, dining room, bar, office
phone system
- phone lines for office, fax, kitchen, hostess station
- pagers, cell phones, fire & burglar alarms
- internet access, service provider
interior signs
- menu boards, restrooms, fire exit, hand wash, wait to be seated
office equipment
- copier, fax, computer, printer, calculators
office furniture
- desk, chairs, filing cabinet, shelving
Page 12of 47
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Activity
janitorial equipment
- wet floor signs, mops, buckets, vacuum
- trash cans, cordless dust pan
emergency equipment procedures
- determine emergency shut-off steps
- label equipment
equipment tests
- test each piece with supplier prior to training
kitchen clock
- purchase & install
kitchen toolkit
- purchase & designate location store
ansul system
- reinspect
repair and maint binder for all equipment
- prepare repair & maintenance binder for operating instructions, manuals
- mail in warranty cards
storage shelves
- clean, organize & label; walk-in, freezer, dry storage
1
1
1
1
1
1
Status
restrooms
- hand towel/dryer dispensers, soap dispensers, hand soap,
baby changing tables
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Page 13of 47
Category
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Months
Prior To
Opening
1
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Legal & Finance
12
12
financing
- investigate potential sources for startup capital
- savings, family, friends, banks, SBA, investors
business plan
- begin drafting your business plan
capital/construction/opening budget
- estimate total startup cost of project through opening day
- incorporate this into business plan
12
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
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
attorney
- find firms with restaurant experience
- get & check references
business entity
- consider corporation, LLC, partnership, limited partnership
- seek guidance from CPA/attorney
Page 14of 47
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
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
Page 15of 47
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
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
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
Page 16of 47
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
Marketing
Marketing
Marketing
Marketing
Marketing
Marketing
Marketing
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
competitive analysis
- create list of competitors
- obtain sample menus for research & reference
menu boards & pictures
- determine type, design, order
- pictures of key menu items bundled with side & beverage
order banners
- NOW HIRING /COMING SOON / NOW OPEN
gift certificates
- design & print
- program gift certificate sales keys into POS
local charities
- choose which to support
printing
- stationary, envelopes, labels, business cards
- invitations for opening parties
public relations for opening
- send out press releases to local media outlets
Page 17of 47
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
Marketing
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
opening party(s)
- press event, VIPs, contractors & suppliers
- create guest lists, send invitations
Marketing
Marketing
Marketing
Marketing
Marketing
Marketing
Marketing
Operations
Operations
Operations
Operations
insurance
- general liability, liquor liability, worker's comp, group medical
Operations
hours of operation
- determine for each day
Operations
checklists
- prepare opening, closing, shift change checklists for all stations
Operations
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
Operations
Operations
Operations
Operations
Operations
product specs
- create detailed product specs for all food products
- grade, size, packaging, brand, etc.
create reservation policy
- consider program to place names on wait list only
Operations
Operations
Operations
Operations
hood/kitchen cleaning
- select approved vendor
Operations
landscaping/lawn services
- select approved vendor
Operations
Operations
Operations
bulletin board
- for employee schedule, mandatory postings
children's amenities
- menu, crayons, coloring book, high chairs, booster seats, balloons
Operations
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
happy hour
- determine special, prices, food
- check state/local laws regarding happy hour/discount programs
menu analysis
- calculate raw food cost on all menu items
- rank items by gross profit margin
prep lists with pars
- create prep lists with par levels
Page 19of 47
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
Operations
Operations
Operations
Operations
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
Operations
music
- satellite radio
Operations
chemicals
- select approved vendor
Operations
grease trap
- select approved vendor
Operations
Operations
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
emergency numbers
- map, directions to hospital
- make arrangements with local clinic
entertainment
- obtain permits if required
- create list of potential entertainers
floor maintenance
- ongoing floor maintenance procedures
- purchase cleaning / polishing supplies
valet parking
- valet stand
- key control system
approved vendor list
- create master list
- include primary & backup vendors
monthly accounting
- determine cycle
- use industry standard chart of accounts
- outside accounting service or in-house bookkeeper
Page 20of 47
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
Operations
pest control
- select approved vendor
Operations
trash disposal
- select approved vendor
Operations
Operations
building repairs
- select approved vendors
Operations
Operations
Operations
Operations
deposit bags
- obtain from bank
Operations
Operations
Operations
Operations
Operations
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
window washing
- do in-house or outsource
- select approved vendor
light levels
- determine for each meal period
- label light switches
change order
- prepare initial change order; change & small bills
check inventory levels
- on all food, beverage, paper & supplies
- prepare orders for opening week
opening inventory
- take full physical inventory on all food & beverage items night before
opening
- necessary to calculate accurate food & beverage costs after opening
Operations
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Page 21of 47
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
Operations
Operations
Operations
Operations
Operations
Operations
Operations
Operations
Operations
Operations
employee benefits
- determine insurance coverage
- vacation, meals, comps, tuition reimbursement, other
Personnel
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
employee training manuals
- create for all positions
Personnel
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Page 22of 47
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
Personnel
Personnel
Personnel
Personnel
Personnel
Personnel
Personnel
Personnel
Personnel
Personnel
Personnel
Personnel
Personnel
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
Page 23of 47
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
Personnel
Personnel
Personnel
Personnel
Personnel
Personnel
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
Personnel
Personnel
Personnel
Personnel
Personnel
Supplies
Supplies
Supplies
Supplies
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
uniforms
- finalize design; kitchen, service, bar, host staffs, managers
dishroom items
- bus carts, bus tubs, glass racks, tray racks
- chemicals, detergents
smallware & kitchen utensils
- source, specs, bid order
dining room
- high chairs
- booster seats
- serving trays, tray stands
Page 24of 47
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
Supplies
Supplies
Supplies
Supplies
Activity
tabletop items
- tableware, flatware, glassware, sugar caddies, table tents, vases
- salt & pepper shakers
first aid kit
- emergency burn kit
tip trays, check presentation folders
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
bar
- blender
- ice machine
- glass washer
- shakers, strainers, spoons, bottle openers, corkscrew
- jiggers
- scoops
- bar mats
- pitchers
Supplies
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Supplies
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Page 25of 47
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
Supplies
Supplies
Supplies
Supplies
Supplies
Supplies
Supplies
Supplies
Supplies
Supplies
Supplies
Technology
Technology
Technology
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
POS system
- list requirements
- start evaluation/demonstration process
POS system
- make POS decision
- set up menu items & prices
- decide on comps & discount categories
- set up essential reports
POS phone line
- dedicated line for charge approvals
Page 26of 47
Category
Months
Prior To
Opening
Technology
Technology
Technology
Technology
Technology
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
website
- register domain name
- contact web design firm
computer software
- office, scheduling, food management
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 27of 47
Category
Activity
12
business plan
Legal & Finance - begin drafting your business plan
12
12
12
Design &
Construction
12
Concept
Development
12
Concept
Development
12
Concept
Development
11
Administration
11
Concept
Development
11
Design &
Construction
11
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
capital/construction/opening budget
- estimate total startup cost of project through opening day
- incorporate this into business plan
financing
- investigate potential sources for startup capital
- savings, family, friends, banks, SBA, investors
market research
- study local markets
- create list of the most promising areas
research competitive landscape
- which concepts are most successful
research market
- look for opportunities or concept gaps
research successful concepts
- collect info on appealing concepts
collect information on required permits and licenses
- health dept, business license, liquor license, other
determine menu price range
- study price points of restaurants in your area
graphic artist
- find a graphic artist to work with
11
Concept
Development
10
Design &
Construction
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Page 28of 47
Category
10
Concept
Development
10
Design &
Construction
10
Design &
Construction
10
10
Design &
Construction
10
Administration
10
Design &
Construction
Marketing
Design &
Construction
Concept
Development
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
Page 29of 47
Category
Design &
Construction
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
business plan
Legal & Finance - complete business plan
capital/construction/opening budget
Legal & Finance - update projections with actual bids/current estimates
Concept
Development
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
concept validation/testing
- interview potential customers
conduct a roof inspection
construction costs
- get estimates for build out from several contractors
Page 30of 47
Category
Concept
Development
Design &
Construction
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Concept
Development
Design &
Construction
floor plan
- obtain or create a floor plan of existing space
- specifically include load-bearing walls
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
handicap access/requirements
health department
- verify no health-related conditions present that could pose problems
lease or purchase kitchen equipment
- shop equipment leasing companies
lighting fixtures
- inspect interior & exterior lighting including parking lot
list of existing kitchen equipment
- obtain detailed list
- evaluate condition
number of tables/seats
- estimate potential seating/revenue potential of dining room
parking lot
- is there adequate parking
- what is the ratio of seats to parking spaces, is there a local minimum
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Page 31of 47
Category
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Operations
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Administration
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
select architect/designer
sewer lines
- evaluate adequacy; size, capacity, age, condition
termite report
- have property inspected for termite/pest problems
traffic patterns
- evaluate adequacy of traffic flow around and through space
visit restaurants with similar offerings
- take notes
zoning requirements
- verity that there are no zoning problems with your concept/plans
architectural/design
- review & approve
banking
- open and fund construction account
buy-sell agreement
- attorney prepares if you have partners/investors
- consider insurance to fund
construction timeline
- time for each phase, completion date
contractor
- select a contractor
design-exterior
- siding, ramps, windows, awnings, lighting
design-interior
- kitchen, bar, dining room, bar, office, lighting
electrical service
- permits, procedures, plans, installation, inspection
Page 32of 47
Category
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Administration
Operations
Design &
Construction
7
7
7
7
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
gas lines
- adequate size, capacity, age, condition
gas service
- permits, procedures, plans, installation, inspection
grease trap
- permits, procedures, plans, installation, inspection
HVAC system
- inspect/evaluate condition
Interior painting
landlord approvals
- determine what items require landlord approval
- plans, signage, other
liquor license
- investigate application process/availability of license
menu & recipes
- narrow menu offerings
- test recipes
- use test kitchen
outside seating
- design, available seating, permits, w/w station, cost feasibility
secure builder's risk insurance
secure general liability insurance
select type of flooring
start demolition work
utilities
- determine utility company options
- choose provider
waste water
- permits, procedures, plans, installation, inspection
water service
- permits, procedures, plans, installation, inspection
Page 33of 47
Category
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
6
6
6
6
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
6
6
6
6
6
6
6
6
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
acoustical ceilings
address back door
- peep hole, buzzer for deliveries, emergency bar
air conditioning/circulation
apply design elements
- logo, colors, type style
Activity
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Page 34of 47
Category
Design &
Construction
6
6
6
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Administration
Design &
Construction
Operations
Design &
Construction
Design &
Construction
Operations
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
parking lot
- resurfacing, control access during construction
paving
plumbing
roofing & waterproofing
smoke detectors
- wire to alarm system
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
landscaping
- design & bid contract
lighting for parking lot
table mix & arrangement
- determine mix of 2 top, 4 top, round, booths
- determine table positions and numbers
Personnel
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Page 35of 47
Category
Operations
Administration
Personnel
Marketing
Marketing
order banners
- NOW HIRING /COMING SOON / NOW OPEN
Personnel
organizational chart
- create organizational chart for restaurant
Technology
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
3
3
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
hours of operation
- determine for each day
liquor license
- apply for
- hiring professional assistance if necessary
management team
- start interviewing/selection process
menu boards & pictures
- determine type, design, order
- pictures of key menu items bundled with side & beverage
POS system
- list requirements
- start evaluation/demonstration process
safe for office
- determine type & order
Design &
Construction
Operations
Operations
Operations
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
cleaning crew
- bid & select vendor for initial & final clean
create reservation policy
- consider program to place names on wait list only
customer comment cards
- design & print
- create procedures for receiving & responding
dining room cleaning
- carpet, flooring, rest rooms
- select outside vendor
Page 36of 47
Category
Personnel
Activity
employee handbook
- create to document and communicate all employee & employment
practices
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
Personnel
Design &
Construction
exterior signage
- primary, handicap, reserved, valet, hours of operation, delivery times
Operations
Operations
Operations
kitchen bible
Food & Beverage - begin building recipe binder & laminated recipe card for menu items
- prepare recipe cards for all batch recipes
landscaping/lawn services
- select approved vendor
Operations
line of credit
Legal & Finance - set up working capital line of credit with bank
3
3
3
Personnel
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Category
Personnel
Operations
Technology
Technology
Operations
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
price menu
Food & Beverage - determine final price points on all menu items
printing
- stationary, envelopes, labels, business cards
- invitations for opening parties
Marketing
Operations
Marketing
product specs
- create detailed product specs for all food products
- grade, size, packaging, brand, etc.
public relations for opening
- send out press releases to local media outlets
Personnel
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Personnel
Personnel
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Page 38of 47
Category
Operations
Design &
Construction
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
timekeeping system
Administration - decide on system type (time cards, manual, POS)
Supplies
Technology
Activity
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
Administration
Operations
Personnel
Administration
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
accounting software
- select in-house accounting software
- format chart of accounts consistent with industry standards
alcoholic beverage server certification
- determine requirements
approved vendor list
- create master list
- include primary & backup vendors
assemble new employee materials
- application forms
- uniforms
- W-4, I-9 forms
- employee handbook, job descriptions
- orientation & training checklists
banking
- open operating, payroll, reserve accounts
- order checks, deposit slips
Page 39of 47
Category
Activity
Supplies
Operations
Design &
Construction
Operations
Operations
Operations
bulletin board
- for employee schedule, mandatory postings
chemicals
- select approved vendor
Operations
children's amenities
- menu, crayons, coloring book, high chairs, booster seats, balloons
Operations
birthday specials
- determine policy, special desserts, b-day song, other
building & equipment plans
- retain full set of plans for operational files
building repairs
- select approved vendors
computer software
- office, scheduling, food management
credit card merchant accounts
- select vendor and open account setup for MC/Visa, Amex, Discover,
Administration Others
Administration
Status
bar
- blender
- ice machine
- glass washer
- shakers, strainers, spoons, bottle openers, corkscrew
- jiggers
- scoops
- bar mats
- pitchers
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Technology
Supplies
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
deposit procedures
- set up processes, pick ups, drops, etc
dining room
- high chairs
- booster seats
- serving trays, tray stands
Page 40of 47
Category
Supplies
Design &
Construction
Operations
Operations
Personnel
Activity
Status
dishroom items
- bus carts, bus tubs, glass racks, tray racks
- chemicals, detergents
electrical labeling
- label switches, breakers and check for accessibility
emergency exit procedures
- determine procedures, post maps
- discuss in safety meetings with staff
emergency numbers
- map, directions to hospital
- make arrangements with local clinic
employee files
- set up for employment application, status changes, other personnel
records
employee recruiting
- newspaper ads
- recruiting
- word of mouth
- bonus for referrals
- plan for turnover
Personnel
Operations
Supplies
Operations
Personnel
Operations
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
entertainment
- obtain permits if required
- create list of potential entertainers
first aid kit
- emergency burn kit
floor maintenance
- ongoing floor maintenance procedures
- purchase cleaning / polishing supplies
food safety training
- purchase food safety training materials/videos
- contact state or National Restauant Association
grease trap
- select approved vendor
HACCAP training
- determine local/state certification requirements
- arrange for manager/employee certification
Page 41of 47
Category
Operations
Design &
Construction
Administration
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Operations
Operations
Operations
Operations
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
menus
Food & Beverage - covers & inserts, to-go, catering, children's
Activity
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Operations
Administration
Operations
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
monthly accounting
- determine cycle
- use industry standard chart of accounts
- outside accounting service or in-house bookkeeper
music
- satellite radio
office equipment
- copier, fax, computer, printer, calculators
office furniture
- desk, chairs, filing cabinet, shelving
payroll processing
- outsource to ADP, Paychex, other
payroll processing
- select vendor and open account
pest control
- select approved vendor
Page 42of 47
Category
Administration
Technology
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Personnel
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Operations
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Supplies
Supplies
Supplies
Operations
Operations
Design &
Construction
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
petty cash
- setup petty cash fund for cash payments
- create petty cash reimbursement form
phone on hold message
- select service provider
- message/music
phone system
- phone lines for office, fax, kitchen, hostess station
- pagers, cell phones, fire & burglar alarms
- internet access, service provider
pre-opening interview site
- temporary office
- equip with phone, furniture, hiring/selection forms
restrooms
- hand towel/dryer dispensers, soap dispensers, hand soap,
baby changing tables
seating chart
- create seating chart diagram with wait staff sections
secure a receiving scale
smallware & kitchen utensils
- source, specs, bid order
tabletop items
- tableware, flatware, glassware, sugar caddies, table tents, vases
- salt & pepper shakers
tip trays, check presentation folders
trash disposal
- select approved vendor
valet parking
- valet stand
- key control system
walk-through with contractor
- create initial punch list
Page 43of 47
Category
Operations
Administration
Personnel
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Administration
Personnel
Design &
Construction
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Administration
Operations
Operations
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Personnel
Operations
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
1
1
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
window washing
- do in-house or outsource
- select approved vendor
accounting/Bookkeeping
- have CPA review sales, deposit, payroll,etc before launch
alcoholic beverage server certification
- determine state/local requirements
- assign employee(s) for certification course
ansul system
- reinspect
bank supplies
- deposit stamp, deposit bags, deposit slips
begin staff training
beverage service
- set up installation of post mix system, coffee, iced tea
calibrate temperatures on equipment
- fryers, griddle, oven, stove, other
cash tills
- get change & small bills from bank
change order
- prepare initial change order; change & small bills
check inventory levels
- on all food, beverage, paper & supplies
- prepare orders for opening week
check walk-in & refrigeration temperatures
complete equipment warranty cards
conduct a mock service
deposit bags
- obtain from bank
emergency equipment procedures
- determine emergency shut-off steps
- label equipment
Page 44of 47
Category
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
1
1
1
1
Design &
Construction
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Design &
Construction
Personnel
Personnel
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Operations
Activity
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
Status
equipment tests
- test each piece with supplier prior to training
exterior cleanup
- parking lot, landscaping, building, windows
final clean & sanitize walk-in, freezer
final clean all equipment
final clean
- interior & exterior of building
finalize opening week employee schedules
- overstaff
- plan for turnover
HACCAP training / certification
- assign employee(s) for certification course
hang pictures, wall decor
hostess stand supplies
- reservation book, call clock, pencils, notebooks, kid's stuff
Supplies
Supplies
Technology
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Page 45of 47
Category
Supplies
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Operations
Supplies
Activity
Status
janitorial supplies
- carpet, tile, floor cleaner, spot remover
- gum solvent, liquid hand soap, paper towels, toilet paper
- windex, paper towels
- "Wet Floor" signs
kitchen clock
- purchase & install
kitchen toolkit
- purchase & designate location store
light levels
- determine for each meal period
- label light switches
linen
- table cloths, napkins, bar & kitchen towels
opening inventory
- take full physical inventory on all food & beverage items night before
opening
- necessary to calculate accurate food & beverage costs after opening
Operations
Marketing
Operations
Personnel
OSHA
- review OSHA standards with managers
Operations
Administration
Technology
Administration
Administration
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
opening party(s)
- press event, VIPs, contractors & suppliers
- create guest lists, send invitations
Page 46of 47
Category
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Activity
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
Personnel
Personnel
Furniture,
Fixtures &
Equipment
1
1
1
1
Status
receive furniture
- tables, chairs, desk tops, benches, patio furniture
Targeted
Responsible Party Completion
Date
storage shelves
- clean, organize & label; walk-in, freezer, dry storage
MyFirstRestaurant
Restaurant Opening Checklist
Page 47of 47