In the immediate period before payday the bank balance often looks a little lean.

Happily, there’s no need to go digging down the back of the sofa for the emergency stash of lost coins, unfinished packs of biscuits and mystery crisps.

It may be a few days yet before salaries slide into the bank account but 5pm Dining is here to ensure that you don’t need to miss out on eating out.

For a limited time, 5pm Dining is hosting the £12 Sale where lots of your favourite restaurants in Glasgow and Edinburgh will be offering a range of dining deals for just £12.

Two or three courses

Whether you’re looking for two courses, three courses, or a glass of wine with your meal, you’ll find a £12 Sale dining offer to suit you.

There are more than 60 different Glasgow and Edinburgh restaurants on today’s £12 Sale page.

From Antipasti in Glasgow to Zucca by the Royal Lyceum in Edinburgh, there really is something for everyone.

We’re thinking about dropping by the Edinburgh International Book Festival at some point so we like the look of the George Street Bar and Grill offer of £12 for any item from the brunch menu plus a glass of Prosecco.

The smoked haddock and Gruyere omelette with spinach plus a glass of chilled fizz sounds just the ticket.

Wide choice of Glasgow restaurants

Back in Glasgow, there are loads of great options and you can browse them here.

You could explore Scotland’s larder at Arisaig where they are offering two courses from the lunch menu for £12.

Or you could hop across the pond and dine at Glasgow’s answer to a Big Apple diner – NY American Grill where your £12 will buy you three courses on the lunch or pre-theatre menu.

Meanwhile, at WEST on Glasgow Green, £12 will buy two courses from the market menu and a beer.

We’re thinking an after work frosty one alongside a starter of deep-fried brie followed by the lamb and mint burger with chickpeas, roasted red peppers and yogurt.