Opening Checklist

Your complete morning routine for getting Muse & Co ready to welcome guests. Arrive 30 minutes before open (10:30 AM) to give yourself enough time.

Timing Matters

The espresso machine needs 15-20 minutes to warm up and boba pearls take 25-30 minutes to cook. Start both of these first, then handle everything else while they're running.

Hours Reference

Day	Hours
Monday	Closed (private events only)
Tuesday - Friday	11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Saturday - Sunday	11:00 AM - 8:00 PM

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Opening Procedure

1. Arrival and Startup (10:30 AM)

• [ ] Arrive at the shop by 10:30 AM
• [ ] Unlock the front door (keep it locked — do not open to the public yet)
• [ ] Turn on all interior lights
• [ ] Turn on the espresso machine and let it warm up (15-20 min)
• [ ] Turn on the hot water dispenser
• [ ] Check the water filtration system — make sure it is running properly and filters are not overdue

2. Boba and Tea Prep (start by 10:35 AM)

• [ ] Start cooking boba pearls (25-30 min process — follow the posted boba recipe)
• [ ] Brew base teas (black tea, green tea, oolong — whatever is needed for the day)
• [ ] Prep fruit tea ingredients — slice fresh fruit, check syrup levels, refill as needed
• [ ] Check milk and cream stock in the fridge
• [ ] Verify all drink ingredients are stocked and accessible

Boba Timing

Boba pearls are only good for 4 hours after cooking. If you expect a slow day, consider cooking a smaller batch and making a second batch later. Do not cook boba before 10:30 AM — they will expire before close.

3. Clean and Set Up the Space

• [ ] Wipe down all counters and the drink prep area
• [ ] Clean and organize the seating area — straighten chairs and tables
• [ ] Check restroom: stocked with soap, paper towels, and toilet paper; clean and presentable
• [ ] Ensure display cases are clean and merchandise is neatly arranged

4. Stock Supplies

• [ ] Stock cups (all sizes)
• [ ] Stock lids and dome lids
• [ ] Stock straws (regular and boba-width)
• [ ] Stock napkins
• [ ] Stock to-go bags
• [ ] Refill straw and napkin dispensers in the customer area

5. POS and Cash Drawer

• [ ] Count the cash drawer and verify it matches the expected starting amount
• [ ] Log into the POS system at staff.ncmuse.co/pos
• [ ] Make sure the card reader is connected and responsive
• [ ] Do a test transaction if anything seems off

Cash Discrepancy

If the cash drawer count does not match the expected amount, note the difference and contact the manager at hello@ncmuse.co before opening. Do not adjust the count without approval.

6. Check the Day's Schedule

• [ ] Review the event schedule for the day
• [ ] If Paint & Boba or Sit and Paint is scheduled:
  • [ ] Set out easels and canvases at the designated tables
  • [ ] Lay out paint supplies (brushes, palettes, water cups, aprons)
  • [ ] Cover tables with protective coverings
• [ ] If a private event is booked (Mondays or after hours), review the event details so you are prepared

7. Final Check and Open

• [ ] Verify the espresso machine is fully warmed up and ready
• [ ] Confirm boba pearls are cooked and sitting in sugar syrup
• [ ] Do a quick walkthrough: everything looks clean, stocked, and inviting
• [ ] Turn on any music or ambient sound
• [ ] Unlock the front door at opening time (11:00 AM)

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Quick Reference

Task	Time Needed	Start By
Espresso machine warmup	15-20 min	10:30 AM
Boba pearl cooking	25-30 min	10:35 AM
Tea brewing	10-15 min	10:35 AM
Cleaning and stocking	15-20 min	10:40 AM
POS and cash count	5 min	10:50 AM
Final walkthrough	5 min	10:55 AM

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Last updated: March 2026