Checklists LibraryRestaurant Mystery Shopper Checklist

HoReCa

10/1/2025

Restaurant Mystery Shopper Checklist

A Restaurant Mystery Shopper Checklist is designed to help owners and managers evaluate the customer experience from an unbiased point of view. Instead of informal feedback, it provides a structured way to assess service quality, food standards, cleanliness, and staff professionalism step by step.

Mystery shoppers can use the checklist to record exact wait times, check the accuracy of orders, observe hygiene practices, and rate the friendliness and attentiveness of staff. Each item ensures that nothing is overlooked — from the greeting at the door to the final payment process.

For restaurant managers, the completed checklist creates measurable insights that go beyond general impressions. It highlights strengths, pinpoints weaknesses, and offers data that can be used for staff training, performance reviews, or compliance purposes.

The checklist is available as a printable PDF for simple reporting or as a mobile app template where users can upload photos, add ratings, and submit comments in real time. Using it regularly helps restaurants maintain consistency, improve service, and keep customers coming back.

0/45

Exterior of the restaurant clean and inviting

Check

Parking lot well-lit and free of trash

Check

Host/hostess greeted you within 1 minute

Check

Note time waited before being seated (minutes)

Number

Upload photo of entrance area

Media

Describe your first impression of staff attitude

Text

Tables and chairs clean and free of crumbs

Check

Floors free of spills, dirt, and clutter

Check

Restrooms checked during visit and were clean

Check

Upload one restroom photo (optional)

Media

Music and lighting appropriate for setting

Check

Note any unpleasant odors or issues

Text

Servers wearing clean uniforms

Check

Hair restraints/hygiene standards followed

Check

Server introduced themselves promptly

Check

Rate overall friendliness of staff (0–5)

Number

Describe any positive or negative staff interactions

Text

Drinks delivered within 5 minutes

Check

Appetizers delivered within promised time

Check

Server checked back within 2 minutes of food delivery

Check

Upload photo of served drinks/meal

Media

Rate overall attentiveness of service (0–5)

Number

Note any delays, mistakes, or exceptional service moments

Text

Food served at correct temperature

Check

Presentation met expectations

Check

Portion size appropriate for menu description

Check

Upload photo of main course plate

Media

Record temperature of hot entrée (°F, optional)

Number

Rate taste/flavor quality (0–5)

Number

Describe your overall food experience (taste, freshness)

Text

Menus clean and easy to read

Check

Specials clearly explained by server

Check

Server knowledgeable about menu items

Check

Upload photo of menu (optional)

Media

Note any unavailable items or substitutions offered

Text

Bill delivered promptly after request

Check

Payment processed accurately

Check

Wait time to receive change/receipt (minutes)

Number

Note any discrepancies or comments about checkout

Text

Rate cleanliness of restaurant (0–5)

Number

Rate food quality (0–5)

Number

Rate service quality (0–5)

Number

Upload one overall photo of dining area

Media

Would you recommend this restaurant?

Check

Provide final comments and suggestions

Text

Restaurant Mystery Shopper Checklist

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