My friend Jill and I recently spent a lovely evening in the newly extended and refurbished ID Chinese restaurant at 55 Croydon Road, Caterham Valley. The owners, Kenny and Michelle Lam, have doubled the size of the premises and now have a sophisticated bar adjacent to the dining area.

The new bar is for anyone who would like to have a relaxing drink in smart, stylish surroundings. There is no obligation to dine in the restaurant although it also provides the perfect place for diners to meet up before going through for their meal. The restaurant has attracted a great many regular customers since opening in Caterham eight years ago. During our visit I was delighted to see an old friend of mine and her husband who had moved to Yorkshire a few years ago. She said they always look forward to dining at ID on their visits back to Caterham.

After ordering a bottle of house Chardonnay, Jill and I browsed the extensive menu. Alongside the seafood, poultry and meat dishes there were Sizzling Dishes and Special Delicacies to choose from and the menu also offered Special Set Meals.

For our starters we chose Fried Fresh Mushrooms with Chopped Garlic and Fried Crispy Shredded Duck with Peppercorn Salt. The mushrooms came coated in sesame seeds and were beautifully succulent. Jill commented on the delicious combination of the duck and the peppercorn salt. "This kind of food is addictive!" she said.

We chose Sliced Lamb in Satay Sauce from the Sizzling Dishes, King Prawn with Spring Onion and Ginger, Singapore Rice Noodles and Fried Mixed Vegetables to share for our main course. As anticipated, they were just as beautifully cooked and delicious as our starters.

"This is absolutely gorgeous," said Jill. "Just when you think you are full you realise you can eat a bit  more!"

We could see why ID has gained such a good reputation. The ambience, service and food were excellent and although the restaurant was full, there was plenty of space to dine comfortably which all goes to ensure a wonderfully relaxing evening. Our Irish coffees at the end of the meal were the perfect finishing touch! On Wednesday Banqueting Nights diners can choose a selection of dishes from their special menu for just £11 representing great value. Be sure to book a table first! Call 01883 345491.