Creating a training manual can be a drag. Let's fix that.
Use this restaurant training manual template to create a custom training manual for your restaurant, outlining staff expectations, functions of their role, rules, and other employee specific policies.
What's inside?
A Customizable Restaurant Training Manual Template
Role Function & Responsibilities
Guest Service
Serving a Table
Shift Close
Knowledge Check
What is a training manual in a restaurant?
A restaurant training manual, sometimes called a restaurants operations manual, helps new and existing restaurant staff learn the in's and out's of how things are done in your restaurant, including the specifics of their role, job expectations, where certain items live in your restaurant, how the tables are numbered, closing and opening protocol, and more job related information. Overall, a restaurant training manual should detail your approach to restaurant operations and general way of doing business.
How do restaurants train staff?
In a restaurant, staff are trained in real-time, typically shadowing an existing staff member who has the same role and learning as they go through the motions of a shift. Using a training manual during a new staff members first 30, 60, and 90 days in addition to on the job training will help your new staff get a complete picture of what it means to be a successful employee at your restaurant. You should consider making separate training manuals for server training, back of house training, bar training, and host stand training so the instructions and guidance are perfectly tailored to the specific roles in your restaurant.
How to set up a restaurant training program
To set up a restaurant training program, you'll want to start by creating an employee handbook that outlines all of your staff-related policies. Next, put together an onboarding plan for new restaurant employees, detailing what their first 30, 60, and 90 days will look like on the job, as well as a training manual that covers how things are done in your restaurant. Use our customizable training manual template to build the perfect training plan for your restaurant!
After downloading the free Restaurant Training Manual Template, be sure to check out our other resources below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a restaurant training manual template?
A: A restaurant training manual template is a customizable document that outlines job-specific procedures, expectations, and best practices for new hires across front-of-house and back-of-house roles.
Q: What should a restaurant training manual include?
A: A strong manual covers role responsibilities, food safety and sanitation steps, POS and service procedures, emergency protocols, and a sign-off checklist for completed training modules.
Q: How do I customize this training manual template for my restaurant?
A: Replace the placeholder sections with your restaurant's specific details. Feel free to add on or delete sections that don’t apply to your business.
Q: What format does the training manual template come in?
A: This free download includes both an editable Word Doc and a PDF.
Q: How often should I update my restaurant's training manual?
A: Review and update your manual at least once a year, or whenever you change menu items, POS systems, or health and safety regulations.
Q: Can I use this training manual alongside Toast's onboarding tools?
A: Yes. Many restaurants pair a written training manual with Toast's team management and scheduling tools to track onboarding completion in one place.
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