New opening checklist for Tasks to do

Pre-Opening Tasks

  • Research what permits and licenses are required for your restaurant
  • Submit applications for necessary permits and licenses
  • Ensure all permits and licenses are approved before opening
  • Contact utility companies to set up electricity, water, gas, etc.
  • Schedule installation of necessary services
  • Ensure all services are functioning properly before opening
  • Create a training program for all staff members
  • Schedule training sessions for employees
  • Provide ongoing training as needed
  • Develop a variety of menu items to appeal to customers
  • Price menu items appropriately
  • Print and laminate menus for easy use
  • Identify target audience and marketing goals
  • Create a budget for marketing efforts
  • Implement marketing strategies such as social media, email campaigns, and local advertising
  • Set up accounts on popular social media platforms
  • Post engaging content regularly
  • Interact with followers and respond to comments and messages
  • Invite friends and family to sample the menu before opening to the public
  • Collect feedback on food and service
  • Use feedback to make any necessary adjustments before opening
  • Create a list of necessary inventory and supplies
  • Research vendors and place orders
  • Ensure all inventory and supplies are delivered on time
  • Choose a reservation system that fits the needs of your restaurant
  • Train staff on how to use the reservation system
  • Test the reservation system to ensure it is working properly
  • Research potential vendors for food, beverages, and supplies
  • Contact vendors to set up accounts
  • Negotiate terms and pricing with vendors
  • Check that all equipment is installed and functioning correctly
  • Inspect cleanliness and organization of the space
  • Make any final adjustments or improvements as needed

Marketing and Promotion

  • Outline goals and objectives
  • Identify target market
  • Determine budget
  • Establish timeline
  • Choose platforms (e.g. Facebook, Instagram, Twitter)
  • Create profiles with consistent branding
  • Post engaging content regularly
  • Design logos, flyers, posters, etc.
  • Ensure consistent branding
  • Include key information about the new opening
  • Select venue and date
  • Create guest list
  • Organize entertainment and catering
  • Define demographics and psychographics
  • Conduct surveys or interviews
  • Use data analytics tools
  • Analyze competitors
  • Study industry trends
  • Gather customer feedback
  • Define brand identity (e.g. mission, values)
  • Create brand guidelines
  • Ensure consistency across all channels
  • Choose domain name
  • Design user-friendly layout
  • Include essential information (menu, location, contact)
  • Identify relevant influencers or bloggers
  • Reach out with partnership proposals
  • Offer incentives for promotion
  • Plan posting schedule
  • Create content themes
  • Include variety of post types (photos, videos, promotions)
  • Define target audience
  • Create compelling ad copy and visuals
  • Monitor ad performance and adjust as needed
  • Invite loyal customers and influencers
  • Offer exclusive previews or discounts
  • Collect feedback for improvements
  • Write press releases
  • Pitch story ideas to journalists
  • Follow up with media contacts
  • Select prizes or incentives
  • Set rules and guidelines
  • Promote on social media platforms

Operational Tasks

  • Install POS software on designated devices
  • Set up menu items and pricing
  • Train staff on how to use POS system
  • Create inventory list based on menu items
  • Place orders with suppliers
  • Organize inventory storage areas
  • Install and test all kitchen equipment
  • Ensure proper ventilation and safety measures are in place
  • Check for any last-minute issues or repairs needed
  • Ensure all areas are clean and ready for opening
  • Outline training topics and schedule
  • Assign trainers for each topic
  • Set up training materials and resources
  • Assign cleaning tasks to staff members
  • Set frequency for deep cleaning
  • Create checklist for daily maintenance tasks
  • Choose reservation software or system
  • Train staff on how to use reservation system
  • Establish protocol for managing waitlists
  • Train servers on menu items and specials
  • Demonstrate proper presentation and upselling techniques
  • Create visual aids for menu presentation
  • Choose feedback collection method (surveys, comment cards, etc.)
  • Designate staff member to monitor feedback
  • Create a system for addressing feedback and making improvements
  • Train staff on how to handle complaints professionally
  • Establish protocol for escalating issues to management
  • Implement a system for following up with customers after resolution
  • Invite friends and family to dine at the restaurant
  • Collect feedback on service and food quality
  • Make necessary adjustments based on feedback
  • Create a staffing plan for busy periods
  • Implement strategies for speeding up service without compromising quality
  • Establish protocols for managing customer expectations during peak times

Staffing

Health and Safety

Financial Tasks

Decor and Design

Related Checklists