The Bargain Hunter: Restaurants offer cheaper eating

With Christmas and New Year making a dent in bank balances nationwide, anyone who likes to eat out but is also looking to save money may be interested to discover that several major restaurants are running offers over the next few weeks. While Yo Sushi is offering 40 per cent off all food from "the belt" from Sunday to Friday, Carluccios will be running a two mains for the price of one discount and Clos Maggiore is introducing two or three-course set menus starting at £15.50 per person.

Walk into Aldo for savings on shoes

The January sales are well under way at Aldo, with 60 per cent off all men's shoes in the retailer's clearance section. With everything from sturdy walking boots to chic dress loafers included, there's bound to be a pair or two that will catch your eye. Prices start at just £6, with a full list of sale items available at http://bit.ly/9BRzfd.

Cut-price way to stop smoking

If you're planning to give up smoking in 2012, Lloydspharmacy's better than half-price offer on NiQuitin and Nicorette products could well come in handy. Lloydspharmacy, one of the UK's biggest healthcare brands, is currently listing a 72-pack of Niquitin CQ 2mg mint lozenges for £5.99, usual price £15.89, while 96 pieces of Nicotinell medicated chewing gum is now £5.79, down from £13.29.

Giraffe slashes price of meals

Finally, the award-winning restaurant chain Giraffe has slashed the cost of meals by 40 per cent until 27 January. The offer is valid all day from Monday to Friday and from 6pm on Sundays. It applies to all world food dishes, including rodeo chicken burgers, hot Thai duck stir-fries and toffee apple crumbles. To take advantage, visit Giraffe.net and join the "Hug Club". As part of your membership confirmation, you'll receive a 40 per cent discount voucher.

j.hall@independent.co.uk