A Cheese Parade Comes to NYC

Pick & Cheese, the London-founded conveyor belt cheese restaurant, will open in Manhattan’s Shaver Hall in February 2026. Since launching in London in 2019, the concept has attracted attention for its novel approach: diners sit beside a moving belt and select small plates of artisan cheeses, each paired with a complementary sweet or savory condiment.

In New York, the format remains straightforward—guests choose plates as they pass by, building custom cheese adventures from a diverse selection. The atmosphere tends to be more fast-casual than cozy, thanks to counter seating and sometimes limited crackers. This setup favors solo visits or pairs over larger groups. As in London, feedback has been mixed: some people like the freedom to try unfamiliar cheeses, while others find the number of options or the cost a bit much, especially with the temptation to sample everything.

Manhattan’s Pick & Cheese will emphasize American regional cheese, spotlighting Northeast producers. Supporters see this as a way to highlight smaller local farms and broaden awareness of American cheesemaking, while skeptics wonder if it’s simply the latest food trend meant to entice Instagram crowds. Menu details include rotating cheese selections, seasonal pairings, and custom grilled cheese sandwiches. 

With the February 2026 opening approaching, it remains to be seen whether New Yorkers will embrace the conveyor belt model for the long term, or if it will serve mostly as a brief curiosity in the city’s ever-changing dining scene.