Okay, I can't rave enough about this place. It is my local Italian, but I just love it to bits.

Nestled down an alley behind two huge wooden doors (thus the name), the restaurant has a great layout. In warm weather the alley has tables that allow outside seating. Inside, the downstairs isn't huge, which gives it a close, cosy feel. There are tables for 2, 4 and a couple of larger ones (one rectangular, one circular). There's lots of extra seating upstairs, although the ambiance isn't quite as nice.

It's run by Italians, so you get the proper bread and olives to start. Now, I've eaten olives all over the world, but I have no idea where these guys get olives this tasty. I've gone just for the olives.

The menu's got lots of choice: starters, pasta, several pizzas, and some great mains. I wouldn't say it's the best place I've ever eaten, but it is the most consistent to have very good quality food. We go at least once a month, and have never been disappointed.

Wine list is okay, but I always get the Valpolicella.

Service is friendly and accommodating. They'll do your pizza take-away if you like.

I feel really lucky to have a place like Osteria del Portico just a minute from where I live. It's comfortable comfort food.