What Is Side Work? Complete Server Opening & Closing Task Checklist
Side work refers to the essential non-serving tasks that keep your restaurant running smoothly. These are the prep, cleaning, and maintenance duties servers complete during opening and closing shifts—beyond taking orders and delivering food. Proper side work ensures every shift starts fresh and ends organized, directly impacting service quality and customer experience.
Server Opening Checklist
Morning side work sets the tone for the day: stock napkins and condiments, wipe down tables and menus, fill salt and pepper shakers, check restroom supplies, brew fresh coffee, and ensure the POS system is ready. If you use digital menus like DineCard's QR code system, verify that codes are clean and visible at each table.
Server Closing Duties
End-of-shift tasks include refilling condiment stations, rolling silverware, sweeping sections, restocking server stations, covering perishables, emptying trash, and completing side work checklists for manager approval. Consistent closing routines mean the opening team walks into a ready-to-go restaurant.
Create printed checklists for both opening and closing shifts. Rotate tasks weekly to prevent burnout and ensure every server knows all restaurant side work responsibilities.
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