We know, we know. You’ve probably heard about Little Conejo (114 W Sixth St, Vancouver, WA) or Rally Pizza (8070 E Mill Plain Blvd, Vancouver, WA) and the quality of food their Portland alum proprietors are serving up just a wee bit farther North than you typically venture. And we know, you realize Vancouver, Washington, could be closer than visiting your friend’s neighborhood across town. But you just haven’t gotten around to checking out the food scene here. And we get it, Portland has a lot to offer in its own right. That said, here are six reasons October is the time to stop procrastinating and trek on up to the Couve for some great food, awesome views, and a steal of a deal.

1. We know we just said this, but…it’s a great deal! Though similar in design to Portland Dining Month, Dine the Couve has a slightly more flexible format through which restaurants offer three items for $23. And the Vancouver restaurants are ready to wow, offering a multitude of menu options to choose from, wine or beer to accompany, even meals designed for two—all for just $23 (that’s $10 less than Portland Dining Month, for anyone keeping count).
   

   

2. Dine with a view. The Vancouver waterfront has continued to expand, and this year, you have an array of options to take in the Columbia River while you savor your meal. At the newer end west of the Interstate Bridge, the Maryhill Winery Tasting Room (801 Waterfront Way, Ste 105, Vancouver, WA) and Twigs Bistro & Martini Bar (801 Waterfront Way, Ste 103, Vancouver, WA) both bring forward signature drinks, serving up a choice glass of wine or two specialty cocktails as part of their respective menus. If you’re in the mood for a classic meal, head over to Warehouse ’23 (100 Columbia St, Ste 103, Vancouver, WA) or Beaches Restaurant (1919 SE Columbia River Dr, Vancouver, WA) for traditional three-course options.
   

   

3. Locally-made craft beverages are featured on many of the menus—from breweries like Trusty (114 E Evergreen Blvd, Vancouver, WA) offering a tasting flight, Say Ciao! (2501 SE Columbia Way, Ste 270) including wine, beer, and cider options, and The Grocery Cocktail & Social (115 W Seventh St, Vancouver, WA) presenting hand-selected Washington whiskeys. You’ll be all set for an excellent dining experience, complete with your drink of choice.
4. New options abound—in addition to exciting new waterfront restaurants. With more dining spots than ever before, there are lots of fresh places to try this month. While not necessarily new to Vancouver, Ghost Runners Brewery (4216 NE Minnehaha St, Ste 108, Vancouver, WA) and Nonavo Pizza (110 W Sixth St, Vancouver, WA) join the lineup of eateries bringing forth delicious food at an even better value.
   

   

5. Once you try the food, you’ll wonder why you didn’t come sooner. Vancouver has top quality chefs and fine dining experiences. Elements Restaurant (907 Main St, Vancouver, WA) Chef Miguel Sosa’s love of the craft of cooking shines through in his standout dishes using fresh ingredients straight from local farms. In downtown, NOM NOM Restaurant & Grill (801 C St, Vancouver, WA) serves up bold Thai and Laotian fusion flavors in dishes like red curry noodle soup—one you really need to dig into for the layers of taste and texture. And less than a mile east, Eatery at the Grant House (1101 Officers Row, Vancouver, WA) satiates any appetite with fine American fare and calming, beautiful views of the Historic Reserve.
6. We’re ready to seat you. While reservations are never a bad idea, you’ll almost always find that you can walk right into our restaurants and get a table. Throw two-hour wait times or booked months in advance occasions out the window and live spontaneously this October.

Feeling hungry? Plan a trip to Vancouver and discover your next great meal here.