Server Side Work Checklist (Opening and Closing)
Side work is what keeps the floor running: stations stocked, tables set, sections reset at the end of the night. Split the tasks by section, have each server tick and initial, and the manager signs it off before anyone clocks out.
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Server Side Work Checklist (Opening and Closing)
Date: ________ Shift: ________ Manager on duty: ________
| Task | Section / station | Opening ✓ | Closing ✓ | Initials | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tables wiped, set and aligned | |||||
| Chairs and high chairs clean | |||||
| Menus clean, specials updated | |||||
| Condiments filled and wiped | |||||
| Napkins folded, cutlery rolled | |||||
| Glassware polished and stocked | |||||
| Water, ice and coffee station ready | |||||
| Bread and butter station stocked | |||||
| Service station restocked | |||||
| Handhelds and card terminal charged |
Preview — the PDF has more rows and repeats the header on every page.
How to use it
- Assign each task to a section or station before the shift and write it in the second column.
- Tick Opening before the doors open and Closing at the end of service; initials go next to every tick.
- Write in Notes what is missing or broken, so the next shift or the manager can act on it.
- The manager checks the sheet before servers clock out and keeps it with the shift paperwork.
A floor ready before the first table
GrazieChef shows every table live on the table map, and the Hub keeps side work checklists and shifts on every server's phone, synced in real time.
Frequently asked questions
What is side work for servers?
The tasks away from guests that keep the floor working: setting and resetting tables, restocking stations, polishing glassware, filling condiments and cleaning at close.
How should side work be divided?
By section or station, rotated fairly across the week. A written list stops arguments and makes it clear who skipped what.
Is side work done during service?
Running side work, such as restocking ice, cutlery and glasses, is done in quiet moments. Opening and closing tasks are scheduled before and after service.