Big Gay Ice Cream Photo Open Call; Brunch at Clarkson

WEST VILLAGE — The Big Gay Ice Cream boys are finishing up their first-ever cookbook, which is slated to be released by Clarkson-Potter in 2014. In keeping with the high school yearbook theme, Doug Quint and Bryan Petroff want to feature old-school photos of their customers in the book. BGIC will be holding open calls on April 27, April 28, May 4, and May 5 at the West Village location from noon to 7 p.m.. Doug Quint sends word: "We need folks to show up ready for their yearbook photo! We want thick-framed glasses, we want too much hairspray. We want tacky make-up, thin mustaches, scrunchies, and ruffled tuxedos." Check out more info on the BGIC site. [EaterWire]

HUDSON SQUARE — Clarkson is launching brunch this weekend. The menu includes ricotta herb pancakes, polenta with sausage, duck confit with sweet potato hash, and lobster bruschetta. Check out the full menu below.

BASTIANICHWIRE— Today Lidia Bastianich announced that she has partnered up with Whole Foods on a brand new line of "homestyle meals." They will be offered in the Tri-State Area to start. Eater National has more information. [Eater National]

Clarkson Brunch Menu 040713 by Eater NY