The weather was perfect while my brother was in town so we decided we wanted to eat outside. While walking towards State Street we passed the courtyard at Porta Bella and thought "Why not?" The courtyard is walled in w/big trees and several metal outdoor tables and chairs.
We went inside to find the hostess stand. Inside is a dark warren of rooms. Looking around while waiting for the hostess I was conflicted between thinking "romantic, old-time atmosphere" and "this place could really stand to be updated and refurbished." The bathroom in particular was dated.
We were seated outside. Our waitress was friendly and prompt. We ordered beer, cocktails, appetizers and entrees. We enjoyed the bread with oil, calamari strips, and spicy cheese bread. The soup was very tasty. I had the Cannelloni which was very filling. Nothing on the menu seemed to stand out as being particularly unusual but everything was flavorful and well-prepared. We left full and it felt like a decent value.
I would not hesitate to come back here if we were in the mood for Italian food.