How to Make Opening and Closing Checklists for Bars in Canada

Running a bar in Canada can be fast-paced and unpredictable — but with the right structure in place, it doesn’t have to be chaotic. One of the most effective ways to streamline daily operations and improve team accountability is through bar opening and closing checklists.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the benefits of using checklists in Canadian bars and explain how to create your own.

Why Opening and Closing Checklists Matter

According to the Toast Consumer Preferences Survey 2025, in which 200 Canadian restaurant managers were polled on running an establishment, 75% of operators use both opening and closing checklists to ensure smooth daily operations, and over 43% update them monthly to stay aligned with evolving procedures.

With operational efficiency now a top priority for Canadian establishments in 2025, checklists have emerged as a low-cost, high-impact tool for:

• Improving staff accountability

• Reducing operational mistakes

• Maintaining cleanliness and food safety

• Simplifying training and onboarding

• Supporting team communication across shifts

What Should a Bar Checklist Include?

A well-structured checklist helps team members start and end their shifts confidently. You can divide your checklist into these categories:

• Cleanliness tasks (e.g., wiping surfaces, sanitising tools)

• Equipment prep (e.g., POS login, ice well fill-up, music volume)

• Inventory checks (e.g., liquor levels, garnishes, restocking napkins)

• Security measures (e.g., locking doors, logging sales, setting alarms)

Interestingly, end-of-day reporting ranked highest in importance by Canadian operators in 2025, followed closely by equipment checks and inventory prep.

Opening Checklist Example

Set your staff up for success with an actionable list. Here’s a sample structure you can adapt:

• Turn on POS and verify login access

• Wipe down bar surfaces and stools

• Restock garnishes, ice, mixers, and napkins

• Set ambient lighting and playlist

• Review daily specials and team schedule

• Conduct pre-shift meeting

Closing Checklist Example

Closing well is just as important as opening right. A strong checklist helps reset your space for the next shift and prevents next-day slowdowns. Example tasks include:

• Count the cash drawer and calculate tips

• Dispose of extra ice and clean soda gun

• Sanitize surfaces and bar tools

• Sweep and mop bar floor

• Lock liquor storage

• Log sales data and shift notes

Cleanliness, Compliance & Team Training

Maintaining a clean bar isn’t just good for customer experience — it’s essential for staying compliant with local health and safety standards. 

Our recent Consumer Preferences Survey found that 45% of Canadian bar operators use a strict daily cleaning checklist, while another 39% follow an informal routine.

Also, 47% of respondents rely on checklists for employee accountability, and nearly 90% feel confident in their ability to manage daily operations, proving that structure helps teams feel more in control of their shifts.

Staff Buy-In: Make Checklists Part of Your Culture

Checklists work best when they’re consistent and collaborative. According to the Voice of the Canadian Restaurant Industry report, bars and pubs across Canada are placing a greater emphasis on employee retention and operational stability. One way to promote both? Involve your team in designing and reviewing checklists.

• Ask bartenders and barbacks to suggest updates monthly

• Conduct quick walk-throughs during pre-shift meetings

• Post laminated copies at each station

• Digitize versions for easy access on mobile or tablets

Tools to Support Your Team

Canadian bar operators increasingly use digital tools to manage day-to-day operations. 

In fact, over 41% use scheduling software, while 25% still rely on daily checklists for accountability.

Looking to boost efficiency even further? See how Gusto 54 streamlined order times and improved team communication using Toast handhelds and KDS systems.

Read the case study

Final Thoughts

Whether you run a neighbourhood pub, cocktail lounge, or bustling bar-restaurant, checklists are one of the simplest ways to increase consistency and reduce stress during shifts. They help build a culture of teamwork, accountability, and efficiency — values that are critical in today’s competitive hospitality market.