he appealing thing about Yaletown is - quite simply - that it's Yaletown. Frankly, the small eclectic back alley-type area looks different than the rest of Vancouver. It's isolated from the city by brick loft spaces used for web gamers and dotcoms looking to make a youthful, stylish impression. That's just what Yaletown asprires to be: youthful and stylish. The issue here is that most youthful individuals can't afford the well-to-do, impressive and high priced dinners most of the eateries in Yaletown have to offer. (This is how the restaurant and bar concept has made its way to fruition; we may not be able to afford the food but we can manage a highball or two.) But thanks to Taste of Yaletown, we can eat, too!

Taste of Yaletown is a new idea conceived by very smart people who are concerned for the commerce of the one-way street community nestled between Davie and Cambie; nestled like a lusciously succulent pig in a blanket. The trouble at hand? The new sea-to-airport-to-downtown-wherever subway tunnel is being developed and one of its destinations - the one that's currently under the highest level of construction and just happens to be one of Van City's hottest hotspots - is Yaletown. Though streets and sidewalks are cordoned off, Yaletown is in no real danger of being forgotten, but easy access to the area is definitely diminished. So along comes Taste of Yaletown! It's a reminder that the warehouse district is home to some of Vancouver's best eats; for extra incentive, and to make up for that roundabout commute to get in, the food is now affordable.

Twenty restaurants are taking part, each offering menu prix fixe of $25, $35 and $45. While this doesn't include tax, tip or spirits, it does include three courses and an excuse to try something new wihtout breaking the bank.

My favourites of those listed include: Amarcord Ristoronte Italiano, Brix, Villa Del Lupo, Bardot Waterfront Bar and Grill, Coast, Provence Marinaside and Rodney's Oyster House.

While most of these joints make the effort to offer up some choice of courses (Capone's Restaurant and Live Jazz Club being one of the best and tastiest examples), others simply offer what they do best and without disappointment. From casual (Cactus Club Cafe, Milestones) to classy (Elixir), there's a little something for everyone, providing an excellent excuse for a date night that won't leave you panhandling for change. Actually getting a table, however, might prove a little more difficult so start making your reservations.

Already well underway, Taste of Yaletown will run until October 29th. -B.J.