Kitchen Closing Checklist Template
This kitchen closing checklist template ensures consistent end-of-day procedures for food safety, cleanliness, and equipment care. Compliant with FDA Food Code requirements.
- Industry: Food & Hospitality
- Frequency: Daily (closing shift)
- Estimated Time: 45-60 minutes
- Role: Closing Manager / Kitchen Lead
- Total Items: 32
- Compliance: FDA Food Code, Health Department, HACCP, ServSafe
Food Storage & Dating
Secure all food items properly.
- Hot foods properly cooled (within 2 hours to 70°F)?
- All items labeled with date and contents?
- FIFO rotation maintained?
- All containers covered/wrapped?
Equipment Cleaning
Clean and sanitize all kitchen equipment.
- Grill/flat-top cleaned and covered?
- Fryers filtered or oil changed?
- Ovens cleaned and turned off?
- All small wares washed and stored?
Refrigeration & Temperature Logs
Final temperature checks.
- Walk-in Cooler Temperature (°F)
- Walk-in Freezer Temperature (°F)
- Temperature logs completed?
Cleaning & Sanitation
General cleaning tasks.
- Floors swept and mopped?
- All prep tables cleaned and sanitized?
- All trash removed to dumpster?
Safety & Security
Final safety checks.
- All gas equipment turned off?
- Back door secured and locked?
- Security alarm set?
Pre-Inspection Information
Initial inspection details and documentation
- Inspector Name
- Inspection Date
- Location / Kitchen Area
- Inspection Type (Routine/Follow-up/Complaint)
- Previous inspection date and findings reviewed?
Temperature Control & Monitoring
Verify all temperature-sensitive equipment and food items
- Refrigerator temperature at or below 41°F (5°C)?
- Freezer temperature at or below 0°F (-18°C)?
- Hot holding foods at or above 135°F (57°C)?
- Thermometers calibrated and functional?
- Temperature logs current and properly maintained?
Food Handling & Cross-Contamination Prevention
Proper food handling practices and contamination prevention
- Proper handwashing observed (20 seconds, soap)?
- Gloves used properly for ready-to-eat foods?
- Raw and cooked foods properly separated?
- Color-coded cutting boards used correctly?
- Allergen cross-contact controls in place?
Related Food & Hospitality Checklists
- Food Temperature Log (HACCP)
- UK FSA Food Safety Checklist (HACCP)
- Australia FSANZ Food Safety Checklist
- India FSSAI Food Safety Checklist
- UAE Food Safety Checklist (Dubai/Abu Dhabi)
- Deli Department Food Safety Checklist
- Seafood Department Food Safety Checklist
- Produce Department Food Safety Checklist
Related Kitchen Operations Checklists
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- Food Temperature Log (HACCP) - FREE Download
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Why Use This Kitchen Closing Checklist Template?
This kitchen closing checklist template helps food & hospitality teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for closing manager / kitchen lead professionals, this checklist covers 32 critical inspection points across 8 sections. Recommended frequency: daily (closing shift).
Ensures compliance with FDA Food Code, Health Department, HACCP, ServSafe. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Kitchen Closing Checklist Template cover?
This checklist covers 32 inspection items across 8 sections: Food Storage & Dating, Equipment Cleaning, Refrigeration & Temperature Logs, Cleaning & Sanitation, Safety & Security, Pre-Inspection Information, Temperature Control & Monitoring, Food Handling & Cross-Contamination Prevention. It is designed for food & hospitality operations and compliance.
How often should this checklist be completed?
This checklist should be completed daily (closing shift). Each completion takes approximately 45-60 minutes.
Who should use this Kitchen Closing Checklist Template?
This checklist is designed for Closing Manager / Kitchen Lead professionals in the food & hospitality industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.
Can I download this checklist as a PDF?
Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.