Fico Bianco opens its doors on Royal Parade

There's a new arrival on Royal Parade, and it's already making waves. Fico Bianco, the all-day Italian dining spot at 10–12 Royal Parade, opened its doors to eager locals, and my partner and I were lucky enough to be there on opening day.

Even from the street, the welcome was clear. A gorgeous balloon arch in greens, creams, and soft peach framed the entrance, and the glow from inside promised something special. We pushed through the doors and were greeted by a room that felt instantly inviting.

From the moment we walked in, the warmth was unmistakable. The space has been thoughtfully designed, a welcoming setting that feels equally suited to a lazy brunch, a leisurely lunch, or a dinner with cocktails as the evening settles over the village.

We started with cocktails, beautifully presented with cucumber, orange, and a golden physalis garnish. They set the tone for the evening, relaxed, considered, and full of small touches that make you feel looked after.

Over our drinks we perused the seasonal evening menu. There's a real breadth to the offerings, from sharing plates and fresh salads to handmade pasta, grilled fish, and hearty mains from the kitchen. The starters alone were tempting enough to make you want to order one of everything.

Before the mains arrived, a generous basket of focaccia came to the table, golden-crusted and still warm, served with olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a balsamic dipping oil. It's the kind of starter that makes you settle in and slow down.

We settled in and let the menu guide us. I went for the braised lamb shank, slow-cooked in red wine, tomato, rosemary and garlic, with creamy mashed potato, fine beans and rosemary jus. It arrived tender, rich, and falling away from the bone with a depth of flavour that spoke of real care in the kitchen.

My partner chose the grilled sea bass, served with sautéed new potatoes, silky carrot purée, asparagus, salsa verde and roasted heritage tomatoes. It was beautifully cooked with crisp skin and fresh, bright accompaniments that let the fish shine, the kind of dish that makes you slow down and savour every bite.

This is great Italian food, plain and simple. Freshly prepared, generously portioned, and served with the kind of genuine hospitality that turns a first visit into a regular one. The staff and owner were really fantastic, attentive without being intrusive, and clearly proud of what they've built.

There was a great atmosphere throughout, a buzz that comes from a room full of people who are genuinely happy to be there. It's the sort of place that makes you want to linger, to order another drink, to stay a little longer than you planned.

Fico Bianco brings something special to Blackheath: a place that works for every part of the day, from morning coffee through to evening cocktails. Whether you're after a relaxed brunch, a long lunch, or dinner with good company, it's well worth a visit.

Book a table at ficobiancoblackheath.co.uk and see for yourself what all the excitement is about. And if you've already been, share your experience in the comments below, we'd love to hear what you ordered.