Bar and Nightclub Opening Checklist for a Smooth Night

A Friday night at a busy bar moves fast. The last thing your bartenders need is to discover the ice machine is empty, the well liquor has not been restocked, or the POS is throwing errors at 9pm when the crowd rolls in. Preparation is the job.

Bar Opening Checklist

Setup and Stock

• Restock all wells and back bar with full bottles
• Fill ice bins and verify ice machine is running
• Cut and prep garnishes (lemons, limes, olives, cherries)
• Stock napkins, straws, cocktail picks, and coasters
• Check glassware is clean, polished, and stocked

Equipment and Tech

• Power on POS systems and verify all terminals work
• Test credit card readers
• Set up tip jars and cash drawers with starting float
• Check music and sound system levels
• Confirm lighting is set correctly for opening

Safety and Compliance

• Verify staff IDs are checked at entry
• Confirm all staff have valid certifications where required
• Check emergency exits are clear
• Review the ID policy with door staff

Cleaning and Ambiance

• Wipe down all bar surfaces and bar stools
• Clean mirrors and glass partitions
• Empty and clean bar mats
• Set up table tents or menus

The Cost of Not Prepping

A table of eight orders drinks and waits fifteen minutes because someone forgot to open the prosecco stock. That table leaves one star reviews and does not come back. Opening checklists are how you prevent these situations every single night.

MyTeamTasks for Bar Teams

Each bartender and bar back has their section checklist assigned before opening. Managers verify completion before they open the doors. No more assuming everything is ready.