Introduction

With states allowing restaurants to reopen, many owners are asking, “Where do I start?” Reopening requires careful planning, from staffing to safety protocols and marketing strategies. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to guide your reopening process and ensure a smooth transition.

The Staff

Key questions to ask about your team:

• Will you introduce an altered schedule or reopen with full hours?
• Are training materials updated to include sanitization, online ordering, and capacity changes?
• Can current employees recommend new hires?
• Are sick leave policies updated for COVID-19 protocols?
• Have you planned for potential staff isolations due to illness?

The Logistics

Ensure your operations are ready:

• Are suppliers available, and can you adjust the menu if ingredients are unavailable?
• Have you reviewed food costs and menu profitability?
• Are social distancing measures in place (e.g., removed tables and chairs)?
• Do employees understand curbside collection and delivery procedures?
• Do you have adequate supplies of masks, gloves, and sanitization equipment?

The Marketing

Engage your customers effectively:

• Have you informed customers of your reopening schedule and protocols?
• Are there new social media images and infographics to communicate updates?
• Will you offer special deals or promotions for online and in-person orders?

The Opening Day

Plan for a successful reopening:

• Are capacity limits in place, and are guests spaced appropriately?
• Have you prepared signage for one-way systems, seating, and sanitization procedures?
• Will you retain curbside collection and delivery options?
• Are hand sanitizing stations set up at key locations?
• Do you have a crisis management plan for emergencies?

The POS System

Ensure your POS system is ready to go:

• Are pricing and menu updates reflected in the system?
• Have you tested online ordering, payment processing, and inventory management?
• Are all POS terminals charged and connected?
• Have you removed access for former employees and added new hires?
• Have you tested the integration between the kitchen display system (KDS) and the POS system?

The Coming Weeks and Months

Prepare for long-term success:

• Do you have a plan to gradually expand capacity as guidelines change?
• Are you prepared to meet fluctuating demand for safety equipment?
• Can you maintain takeout and delivery services to meet customer preferences?
• Are you exploring new revenue streams, such as merchandise, gift cards, or online cooking classes?

Conclusion

Reopening a restaurant post-pandemic comes with challenges, but with the right preparation and mindset, it’s an opportunity to rebuild and thrive. Follow this checklist to ensure a safe, efficient, and customer-focused reopening. Good luck!