As an avid follower of celebrity sightings, I am loathe to admit my ambition to sip a glass of water at The Ivy, in the mere hope of an appearance by Posh and Becks. But – in my position as a non-celeb – bagging a table at that renowned eaterie is about as likely as becoming tabloid royalty myself.

Fortunately for us lowly people, a suburban equivalent is just a stone’s throw away. The Wharf, in Teddington, has always been a favourite of a certain rock star and it was listed in the Michelin Guide Great Britain 2007.

Looking down at the 'spectacular bar'

Regulars may recall shivering as they dined, due to the awning and drafty canvas walls which housed the restaurant. A recent refurbishment has replaced these with wall-to-wall glass and a solid roof, so you won’t have to wait until summer to book a table! The Wharf’s views of the River Thames are also fully visible. As I entered the venue, the maitre’d and manager Eric Baby warmly greeted myself and my dining companion and sibling Sarah and directed us to a spectacular bar, where we were able to survey the new spring menu before heading to our table. It offered up an eclectic mix of modern European cuisine with some vibrant Asian influences. This is largely down to Ray Neve, The Wharf’s owner and head chef, who spent two years of his long career in the Far East, as well as the renowned 3 Michelin star restaurant Des Frères Troisgros, France, The Dorchester and Mosimann's in London.

To start, I opted for the Thai seafood and sesame salad, chilli and mango jam (£8). The dish was an array of colours and although the presentation was second to none, it did not compare to the taste: succulent pieces of fish, such as prawns, full of flavour yet subtly spicy. Sarah chose the mussels marinere, white wine, cream and parsley (£7). The portion size was impressive and Sarah reported her delight after she had cleared her plate! When choosing a main, I went for a more traditional take with the spiced rump of lamb, sweet potato and goat’s cheese mash (£16.50). It proved tender, cut easily by the knife and cooked to perfection, while the mash complemented the meat. Sarah requested corelli chicken, chrizo, crispy peppers, green beans, tomatoes and basil (£12.50). Once served, she described it as juicy with a burst of flavour, and the vegetables crisp and tasty. Finally, despite our lack of hunger, we ordered bread and butter pudding with white chocolate ice cream, and strawberry cheesecake with amaretto creme fraiche (all desserts are priced £5.50).

The Wharf boasts it all – an ideal setting, sophisticated clientele, a varied, adventurous menu and attentive service. And despite the lack of star spottings, Sarah and I left feeling like VIPs!