Not being picky, but I think MissB is right:

Her suggestion looks better because the yellow/gold buttons somehow stuck out like a sore thumb.

Apart from this little detail I think that your layout is a very viable solution (keeping in mind that there can never be a "perfect" solution).

I guess most people who visit your site don't do it just for fun.

They do it because they are looking for a particulat item!

Your layout will help them to get to the vendors which sell productds in that category. I like it!

Peter