P.M. COOK CHECK LIST

1. Before the Shift

  • Arrive on time and ready to work.

  • Wear full uniform: hat, non-slip shoes, and clean apron.

  • Grab clean towels for your shift.

  • Turn on all equipment: ovens, grill, griddle, and fryer (check and change fryer oil if needed).

  • Check the prep list and plan your time efficiently.

  • Organize deliveries and recycle boxes.

  • Bring all ingredients needed for prep from storage to the kitchen.

2. Station Setup

  • Set up your station neatly and make sure everything is clean and refreshed.

  • Gather all tools needed for cutting, grating, or dressing — keep them sanitized and ready.

  • Check dates on all containers and test products.

    • Anything in the fridge or station for more than 2 days must be checked or discarded if lost the flavor.

3. Menu & Communication

  • Review all menu items before service.

  • Write down:

    • “86” items (not available).

    • Countdown numbers for low-stock items.

  • Communicate this information clearly to servers before the shift starts.

4. During the Shift

  • Clean as you go.

  • Rinse and return dishes used for produce; don’t leave dirty dishes piled up.

  • Keep countertops clear — return unused items to their proper places.

  • When going to the walk-in, use a tray to carry items efficiently.

  • Never leave the walk-in or freezer door open.

  • Never leave the KITCHEN door open.

  • Keep the walk-in and freezer organized — all products must have dates.

  • Do not misplace produce and containers, even when empty.

    • Empty containers should be washed, dried, and returned to their spots.

    • This ensures accurate end-of-day inventory.

5. Organization & Quality Control

  • On slower days (Tuesday & Wednesday):

    • Clean and sanitize shelves, walls, ovens, and fridges.

  • When unpacking new products:

    • Clean containers.

    • Place new product at the bottom and older product (separated by a napkin or paper) on top to ensure proper rotation.

  • Check produce quality daily and separate or record any spoiled items to prevent damage to fresh stock.

6. End of Shift Duties

  • As you prep, write down the produce items that need to be ordered on the whiteboard.

  • Take and complete the inventory and order list for the next day.

  • Update the prep list based on par levels.

  • Check base sauces and storage items; provide a complete order list and prep list to your supervisor.

  • After sending the order list, begin breaking down your station.

  • Thursday to Sunday:

    • Also review the order and prep list for brunch and pull items from the freezer for the next day’s brunch shift.

7. Notes & Best Practices

  • Time management is everything.

    • Review your to-do list and prioritize tasks at the start of your shift.

    • Make one efficient trip to the walk-in or storage instead of multiple trips.

  • Keep storage and walk-in areas clean and organized at all times.

  • Add items to the order list before they run out completely.

  • Wash hands constantly — even when wearing gloves.

  • Personal items must be kept in lockers, not on shelves or counters.

  • When prepping:

    • Always keep the recipe card in front of you and follow it exactly.

    • Maintain portion consistency — follow recipes and plating photos.

  • Communicate with your team — we’re all working in one house.

  • Every night (Thursday–Saturday), leave notes for the morning shift:

    • Include instructions or simply thank them for a job well done.

  • Always aim for a perfect dish, even when no one is watching.