If you've been feeling particularly down today or noticed a gloomier atmosphere, there could be a simple explanation: it's Blue Monday! Typically falling on the third Monday of January, Blue Monday has been dubbed the most depressing day of the year, as we settle back into a work routine, leave the festive period behind us and with summer seeming so far away.
However, this doesn't mean you should just go and hide under your duvet and wait for the day to be over – in fact, restaurants and pubs across the UK are hosting exciting events and deals to help brighten up your day! We've rounded up some of our foodie favourites sure to cheer you up…
Pizza Express have a mood-boosting pizza
Pizza Express
There's nothing like a slice of pizza for an indulgent pick-me-up, and Pizza Express has partnered with nutritionist Juliette Kellow to create the ultimate mood-boosting pizza. Ingredients include baked salmon, egg and baby spinach, all of which have been proven to help lift your spirits. Simply head to your nearest restaurant and request the special order to brighten up a dreary Monday!
For more information visit pizzaexpress.com
The Botanist are offering one lucky winner the ultimate feel-good gift
The Botanist
Hailed for its botanical cocktails and BBQ-inspired food, The Botanist pub have already been brightening up their customers' days with tokens of kindness from impromptu cocktail masterclass vouchers to boxes of Elizabeth Shaw treats. However, they've really upped the ante for Blue Monday. Head to one of their venues where one lucky participant will be chosen to receive the ultimate feel-good gift in their own home; a live band, a chef and bartender will throw the ultimate party for them and up to four guests, while Elizabeth Shaw will decorate the room with flowers and chocolates!
For more information visit thebotanist.uk.com
Busaba Eathai have a special 99p menu
Busaba Eathai
Ignore the cold, rainy weather and head to Busaba Eathai for lunch, where they are hosting an exclusive 99p menu! Tuck into any of the mouthwatering nine dishes from classic Pad Thai to crabmeat fried rice or green chicken curry – all for just 99p each. The offer runs from 12-4pm and you'll need to register online ahead of time, but if you don't have time for lunch they are also offering another way to beat the January blues, with 25 per cent off food throughout January.
For more information head to busaba.com
YO! Sushi
Craving a sushi fix but don't want to break the bank? Head to any YO! Sushi branch on Blue Monday where every single one of their dishes will be priced at a budget-friendly £2.80. The best part? This offer runs on every Monday of the year, so if you don't have time to head down today, there's always next week!
For more information visit yosushi.com