Welcome to Circa 1886
A Refined Dining Experience

Welcome to Circa 1886 Restaurant, where our menus are a testament to the artistry of exceptional dining. Step into a world of culinary discovery as we proudly present our distinctive array of offerings, each designed to elevate your dining experience to new heights.

Tucked within the original carriage house of Wentworth Mansion®, Circa 1886 evokes the romance and old-world charm of historic downtown Charleston. Look beyond its original pine floors and charming architectural details, explore a creative menu bursting with flavors, and experience unrivaled Southern hospitality. We invite you to experience for yourself why Circa 1886 consistently earns its place among Charleston, South Carolina’s most esteemed fine dining establishments.

Private Gatherings

Intimate Celebrations

From anniversaries and family reunions to weddings and rehearsal dinners, our staff is experienced in creating unique, personalized, and memorable events.

Make the most of your time in Charleston by taking part in our unique and special activities.

Exclusive Experiences

  • cocktails

    Private Mixology Classes

    Shaking With The Seasons

    Learn the basics of using different spirits and seasonal ingredients to create delicious libations.
    Learn More
  • John Riddick

    Private Wine Tasting

    Secrets of the Sommeliers

    Learn the basics of how grapes become wine and how to pick the perfect wine at a restaurant.
    Learn More
    Executive Chef

    Marc Collins

    Executive Chef Marc Collins has been masterfully creating culinary magic for more than 20 years, transforming any ordinary night out into a spectacular experience.

     

    • "Birthday Celebration"
      Hi Ginny, You and your team were AMAZING! Michael Dawson was fantastic, the food was delicious and all of your staff could not have been more gracious and helpful. Everything was seamless. THANK YOU! We’ll be back!
      Liz H.
    • "Top-notch dining experience"
      What an amazing dining experience this was. Set in what was once the carriage house. Beautifully decorated and a lovely restful experience. Our waiter was superb (and we connected immediately with him as he is originally from the same state and area as we live). My husband and I each had the tasting menu. He had the Cooper Menu and I had the Ashley Menu. The food was absolutely top rate! If you want a quiet, elegant meal, I highly recommend Circa 1886.
      C6239KKmonicad | Nashua, New Hampshire | 4/30/23
    • "Perfection!"
      Husband and I had each of the 5-course tasting menus. The service all around was top-notch. Wine pairings were perfection, and the quality and quantity of food was amazing. Best meal. I cannot speak highly enough of this hidden gem!
      dpp74 | St. Augustine, Florida | 12/31/22

    Awards & Accolades

    Celebrating Excellence

    No. 1
    Most Romantic Restaurant in South Carolina 2023
    Yelp
    No. 4
    Best Hotel Restaurant 2021
    USA Today 10Best Awards
    No. 9
    Best Fine Dining Restaurant
    TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Awards 2022

    We can’t believe we have to reschedule our event due to the threat of snow and ice! 🧊 ❄️

    But everyone’s safety must come first! We look forward to celebrating our 25th anniversary next month!

    Stay warm everyone! 🥶

    #snowday #circa1886
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    Every month, we design a newsletter to give readers the inside scoop and go behind the scenes at Circa 1886!

    From interviews with our talented staff to recipes to important event dates, we have something for everyone!

    Don’t miss out on exclusive updates, behind-the-scenes content, and the latest happenings!

    Head to our bio for all the newsletters and the link to sign up to have The Dish delivered to your inbox each month!

    #Circa1886 #FineDining #TheDish
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    🎉 Exciting news! Due to high demand, we’ve opened our charming Garden Room (communal table) to welcome more guests to our 21st Anniversary Dinner on Tuesday, January 21st at 7:15 PM! There are just 12 seats available. Call 843-853-7828 to reserve your spot.
    We can’t wait to celebrate this momentous occasion with you! 🥂

    $110 per person includes four courses, a welcome glass of champagne, and a take-home treat. A wine pairing will be available for an additional $70/pp.

    #AnniversaryDinner #Celebration #CharlestonDining #Circa1886
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    🎉 We are thrilled to share that our Executive Pastry Chef, Ashley Cardona, is in the running for "Outstanding Pastry Chef of the Year" by the @scrla_ (South Carolina Restaurant & Lodging Association).

    The prestigious Stars of the Industry Awards celebrate the best and brightest in hospitality—honoring those who go above and beyond to elevate the industry.

    Ashley will attend the award ceremony in Greenville on February 17th, where the winners will be announced.

    Whether she takes home the title or not, Ashley is already a shining star in the industry, and we couldn’t be prouder! ⭐🍰
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    🎉Join Us for a Night to Remember!

    There are just a few seats remaining for our 25th Anniversary Dinner on Tuesday, January 21—and you won’t want to miss this extraordinary celebration!

    Indulge in a specially curated, four-course commemorative menu that highlights 25 years of culinary excellence, including:

    🍞 Southern Grilled Cheese with pimento cheese mousse and paddlefish caviar
    🍗 Buttermilk Fried Red Hen with green bean casserole and roasted shallot gravy
    🦌 Broken Arrow Antelope with smoked blackberry BBQ sauce and vanilla bourbon baked beans
    ☕ Coffee and Chocolate featuring chocolate chiffon, salted caramel, and smoked sea salt

    Your evening begins with a welcome glass of champagne 🥂 and ends with a sweet take-home treat to remember the occasion.

    Seating starts at 7:15 PM

    Celebrate this milestone with us and toast to 25 years of unforgettable dining!

    Call 843.853.7828 to reserve your spot!

    #Circa1886 #CharlestonDining #AnniversaryDinner #FoodieEvent #SouthernCuisine #Celebrate25
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    As we welcome the new year, we’re reflecting on the incredible moments shared at Circa 1886. Over the past 25 years, we’ve been proud to serve as a gathering place for friends, family, and visitors to Charleston—striving to offer a refined dining experience and a touch of history in the heart of the city.

    What began as a dream in the original carriage house of Wentworth Mansion® has grown into a cherished dining destination, and it’s all thanks to you, our loyal guests and visitors. We’re honored to be part of your stories and can’t wait to create even more memories together in the year ahead. Here’s to an amazing 2025, Charleston! 🥂 #HappyNewYear #Circa1886
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    As we prepare to celebrate our 25th Anniversary on January 21st, we’re reflecting on the incredible journey that’s been made possible by you—our loyal guests and visitors. Thank you for being part of our story!

    We’d love for you to join the celebration! There are still a few seats available, so call 843.853.7828 today to reserve your spot. Let’s toast to 25 years together! 🥂 #circa1886 #anniversary #finedining

    Click the link in our bio for the menu and Circa`s 25-year history.
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    Merry Christmas from all of us at Circa 1886! 🎄✨ This season, we’re celebrating our incredible guests, the magic of Charleston, and the joy of creating unforgettable holiday dining experiences. Wishing you a day filled with love, warmth, and festive cheer. ❤️🎁 #MerryChristmas #Circa1886 #HolidayJoy ...

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    All I want for Christmas is... a table filled with Circa 1886’s finest flavors. Indulge in a dining experience that’s equal parts festive and unforgettable, with dishes that celebrate the magic of the season. 🎄🍷

    Ready to treat yourself? Book your table today and make your holiday merry and bright!

    #FineDining #Christmas #TistheSeason #CharlestonDining
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    As we celebrate Circa’s 25-year anniversary, we want to reflect on the incredible creativity and dedication that has shaped our story. A heartfelt shoutout to our talented Executive Chef, Marc Collins, whose passion and innovation have been at the heart of our unforgettable dining experiences.

    Read more about Chef Marc`s culinary journey by using the link in our bio! And don`t forget to submit your votes for our 25th-anniversary menu! Who knows? Maybe you`ll see one or two of your favorites at our anniversary dinner next month.

    Secure your reservations now!
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    An evening of elegance begins with a toast🥂

    Celebrate life’s milestones—or simply the joy of fine dining—in the intimate charm of Circa 1886. From exquisite dishes to unforgettable moments, every detail is crafted to delight. Reserve your table today and make your next celebration one to remember!
    #FineDining #Celebration #Anniversary #Charleston #CharlestonDining
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    Circa 1886 is turning 25! 🥂✨

    For 25 years, Circa 1886 has been a cherished part of Charleston’s dining scene. To mark this milestone, we’re hosting an anniversary dinner featuring a commemorative menu chosen by you.

    How it works:
    Vote: Cast your vote for your top 3 favorite dishes from our 25-year history. [Link in bio]
    Purchase Tickets: Call the restaurant to reserve your spot for this historic event.
    Dine: Join us for a night of culinary excellence and nostalgia.
    Celebrate: Raise a glass to 25 years of deliciousness!

    Don`t miss this historic event! Voting ends December 15th!
    #25years #Anniversary #CharlestonDining
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    Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at Circa 1886! 🦃 Today, we’re grateful for our wonderful guests, the charm of Charleston, and the joy of sharing special moments with you. Wishing you a day filled with love, laughter, and delicious holiday memories. 🧡🍂 #HappyThanksgiving #Circa1886 #Grateful ...

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    📣 Reminder! Circa 1886 will be closed this Thursday for Thanksgiving as our team celebrates with their loved ones. However, we’ll be open tomorrow, Wednesday, November 27th for an exceptional pre-holiday dining experience!

    Reserve your table now and let us treat you to a midweek culinary delight. Call or visit the link in our bio to secure your spot!
    #Thanksgiving #Holiday #FineDining #Charleston #CharlestonRestaurants
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    It doesn’t get much better here. Book your reservations for this holiday season now and experience a dining experience unlike any other!
    #finedining #charleston #charlestonrestaurants #foodie
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    Taste the essence of Charleston, crafted by the hands of our talented bar manager, Denis! Our new cocktails celebrate local flavors and spirits. Get the recipe for this beauty and elevate your home bar game.

    Be sure to join us for our exclusive experience, "Shaking with the Seasons." Immerse yourself in the art of cocktail creation as you learn directly from Denis and discover how to craft your own exquisite cocktails at home!
    #Cocktails #Seaons #Fall #FineDining #CharlestonCocktails
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