How to Create a Server Opening and Closing Checklist in Canada

Server opening and closing checklists are simple, powerful tools that help your front-of-house (FOH) team stay accountable, consistent, and efficient. In this article, we’ll walk you through how to build one that fits your operations. 

Why Are Server Opening and Closing Checklists Important?

When your team is busy, it’s easy to forget small but critical tasks. Checklists ensure essential routines are followed every shift, no matter who’s on the floor. 

According to the Toast Consumer Preferences Survey 2025, in which 200 Canadian restaurant managers were polled on running an establishment, 75% of Canadian restaurant managers already use both opening and closing checklists to keep operations smooth.

1. Boost Training and Accountability

For newer staff members, checklists ease information overload on the first day. Instead of memorizing everything, they have a clear, easy-to-follow reference. 

Nearly 36% of operators surveyed said that new templates and checklists are among the most useful training tools.

Having team members initial each task might seem like a small thing, but it goes a long way in building a sense of ownership. It helps everyone stay accountable, without feeling like they’re being micromanaged.

2. Support Cleanliness and Safety

In the same survey, cleanliness topped the list of Canadian restaurateurs’ operational priorities, and over 80% of guests ranked cleanliness among the top drivers of loyalty. Still, only 45% of restaurants report using a strict daily cleaning checklist.

Including FOH cleaning responsibilities like glassware prep and table sanitization on your server checklist keeps your establishment compliant and guest-ready.

3. Improve Operational Efficiency

Canadian restaurants are working harder than ever to improve efficiency. In fact, efficiency and employee productivity were named as top priorities for 2024 in Toast’s Voice of the Canadian Restaurant Industry Report.

Checklists help ensure no time is wasted repeating tasks, fixing mistakes, or searching for missing items. When routines are clear and consistent, staff can focus on delivering great service.

What Should Be on Your Server Opening and Closing Checklists?

Here’s a breakdown of what most checklists include:

Server Opening Checklist

Before your doors open, make sure staff can run through these common opening tasks:

• Turn on lights and music

• Check thermostat settings

• Charge and test POS terminals and handhelds

• Set up side stations and refill condiments

• Sanitize and prepare menus

• Arrange tables and refill tabletop items

• Prep water pitchers and glassware

During Shift Checklist

If your restaurant operates in shifts, mid-day checklists help avoid dropped balls. Include:

• Sanitize menus and tables

• Refill water and condiments

• Clean POS terminals

• Restock side stations

Server Closing Checklist

At the end of a shift, it’s about cleanliness, reset, and logging off:

• Collect menus and sanitize tables

• Put up chairs

• Refill tabletop items for the next shift

• Turn off music and lights

• Set thermostat

• Sign/punch out

Server Cleaning Checklist

To stay ahead of health inspection requirements and maintain standards, include:

• Sweep and mop floors

• Clean windows and glass doors

• Sanitize tables and touchpoints

• Dispose of garbage and recycling properly

How to Build and Implement a Checklist That Works

1. Consult Your Team

Loop in your staff and FOH managers to co-create the checklist. They’ll help you catch tasks you might miss and feel more invested in using it.

3. Train Staff on How to Use It

Only 22% of Canadian restaurants hold daily pre-shift meetings, but staff performance improves significantly when expectations are clearly set. Use the checklist as part of training and reinforce it during pre-shift huddles.

4. Update The Checklist Regularly

According to the Toast Consumer Preferences Survey 2025, 43.5% of restaurants update their checklists monthly, while 37.5% update quarterly. Reviewing your checklist often ensures it stays relevant—and staff stay engaged.

5. Use Digital Tools Where Possible

Restaurants in Canada are increasingly using technology to manage operations. Digital checklist apps, scheduling tools, and POS integrations reduce admin time and help streamline shift changes. 

Learn how Gusto 54 Restaurant Group improved order speed and server efficiency with handhelds powered by Toast.

What’s Next?

A good checklist is only the start. You’ll also want to consider:

• Creating detailed job descriptions

• Training staff on upselling and guest service

• Using scheduling tools to manage fair shift distribution

Final Thoughts

Checklists aren’t just about ticking boxes. They’re about helping your staff feel confident, your guests feel cared for, and your business run like a well-oiled machine.

With labour shortages and rising operational demands, even small steps toward better structure—like a server checklist—can make a measurable difference.

So why wait?