Friday is the first day of the Chinese New Year. Last year was the year of the snake and this incoming one is the year of the horse. Those born in horse years are said to be cheery souls; good with money; smooth talkers and perceptive – not a bad set of skills to have in your arsenal.

This 5pm Dining blog scribbler has never set much store in astrology but then I looked up my Chinese zodiac sign and I think they have nailed it.

I was born in the year of the dog and, according to this site, those born in the year of the dog are, among other traits, amiable, honest, straightforward, intelligent and, this is the clincher, I exude sex appeal. My wife will be pleased. If surprised.

Chinese New Year Dinner

One way to celebrate the year of the horse is with the special Chinese New Year Dinner being prepared at the Brasserie on George Square.

This Friday and Saturday, the Glasgow restaurant is organising a four course dinner to celebrate the year of the horse.

Here’s the menu:

Vegetable spring rolls served with chilli and soy sauce

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Crispy duck breast on a bed of sautéed pak choi, finished with a honey hoi sin glaze

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Chilli & seafood noodles – scallops, prawns, salmon, white fish, sesame seeds and vegetables, with egg noodles, finished with a lemon and chilli dressing

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Banana fritters – finished with a light sweet glaze and accompanied with home made toasted coconut ice cream

Pre booking is essential and bookings must be made by Wednesday 29th January 2014.