Next week our schedules just got a bit more packed thanks to Taste of Yaletown kicking off Thursday, October 16, through the end of the month (October 30).

With 25 different restaurants participating this year, culinary variety is definitely on the agenda. Our appetites were more than piqued when we took a look at all the menus (see for yourself here).

Head to favourites like La Pentola della Quercia for lunch or dinner (they, along with a handful of others, will be serving up both options). It’ll be like a foodie tour through Italy with dishes based on Southern and Northern cuisine.

We’ve already booked a table at Parlour – they’ve got a killer deal for $35 that you don’t want to miss…. Indulge in any two appetizers and a pizza — guaranteed you’ll be rolling home happy.

If you’re on the hunt for more casual and fun fare, be sure to check out the Yaletown Brewing Company and their $25 menu. It features plenty of upscale pub grub, paired with a tasting of their own beer and selection of sprits.

Looking for a bit of creative flare during TOY? RAW Canvas is your answer! They are offering a unique dining experience that includes plenty of small plates, wine, cocktails, and snacks, followed by a post-dinner painting session to make it extra memorable ($45). Bonus: you get to keep your canvas creation.

If you’re trying to impress a date, you’ll want to score a seat at West Oak Restaurant, Glowbal Grill Steaks and Satay, or Brix Restaurant and Wine Bar. Alternately, you could also go for Aburi Japanese or head to Minami Restaurant.

As always, a portion of the profits from meals served during TOY will be donated to The Greater Vancouver Food Bank. The festival has raised more than $100,000 since its inception 10 years ago.

Will you be heading on over to the Taste of Yaletown? Let us know in the comments section below or tweet us @ViewTheVibe.