This week in New York, Adam Platt visits Matsugen with his wife. Neither was enthusiastic. In between gathering intel on openings — this week it’s Pomegranate, a new Jewish grocery in Midwood and White Star, Sashe Petraske’s latest “sipping spirts” bar — Rob and Robin taste-tested seven organic hot dogs and went cool-hunting for new chef’s hats. Gael Greene visited Sheridan Square and found her favorite starter on the menu: grits. Basil is everywhere now, and Queens Thai restaurant Sripraphai uses it to good effect in this week’s In Season recipe for pad kra pao. And if you’re still in a DIY mood, Rob and Robin tell us about a ricotta-making demo this week at Whole Foods on Bowery.

Platt: Matsugen
Openings: Pomegranate, White Star
Taste Test: Organic Hot Dogs
Food Fashion: Chef Hats
Insatiable Critic: Sheridan Square
In Season: Basil
Food Demo: Ricotta [NYM]