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 are honored to share that Circa 1886 has been nominated for the Condé Nast Traveler 2025 Readers` Choice Awards. Your vote would mean the world to us!

    Please cast your vote through the link in our bio and help us earn a place among the finest. Thank you for your continued support! 🤍

    #Circa1886 #Charleston #CondéNastTraveler #ReadersChoiceAwards2025 #FineDining #SouthernHospitality #VisitCharleston #ExploreCharleston
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    With dishes this good looking, it’s only right that sometimes the phone eats first! 🤳🏼 Don’t forget to tag us in your Circa 1886 snapshots - we love seeing our dishes captured through your lens. 🍽️

    #circa1886 #finedining #southerncuisine #charlestonsc #CharlestonDining #VisitCharleston #ExploreCharleston #foodie
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    A decadent delight! 🍒🍫 To celebrate National Black Forest Day, our Executive Pastry Chef @pastry_chef_ashley created a stunning Black Forest Dessert featuring cherry mousse, chocolate chiffon, and whipped cream—perfectly paired with a non-alcoholic wine, thanks to our friends at @charlottebeveragedistribution. A sweet celebration done right!

    #Circa1886 #NationalBlackForestDay #Pastry #Dessert #FineDining #Wine #WinePairing #SouthernCuisine
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    Located in the 🤍 of downtown Charleston, Circa 1886 is the perfect event venue for any occasion. Whether it’s an intimate anniversary, family reunion, or business dinner, our private rooms and expert team will bring your vision to life for a truly unforgettable event. Book your occasion today through the link in our bio! 🥂

    Photo Credit to Wild Cotton Photography.

    #Circa1886 #CharlestonEvents #PrivateEvents #CharlestonVenue #FineDining #SouthernCuisine #PrivateDining
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    Want a bite of Charleston`s history? Dine at Circa 1886!🍴

    Housed in the historic carriage house of the Wentworth Mansion®, Circa 1886 offers a dining experience like no other. Immerse yourself in the charm of this beautifully restored space while enjoying dishes crafted with local ingredients and a taste of Charleston’s past.

    Book your table through the link in our bio today! ✨

    #Circa1886 #HistoricCharleston #CharlestonDining #VisitCharleston #FineDining #SouthernCuisine #SouthernHospitality
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    Cheers to National Cocktail Day! 🍸 Whether you’re sipping on a handcrafted beverage at the bar or diving into our exclusive Shaking with the Seasons mixology experience, it’s the perfect way to celebrate.  Led by the talented Denis Kats, you’ll discover the art of mixing seasonal ingredients with spirits to create unforgettable libations. Don’t miss your chance to elevate your cocktail knowledge and indulge in a one-of-a-kind experience through Shaking with the Seasons. Book your spot through the link in our bio! 

    P.S. Our new seasonal drinks are dropping soon! 🤫

    #NationalCocktailDay #Circa1886 #CraftCocktails #FineDining #Charleston #CharletonEvents
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    From expertly crafted dishes to an enchanting ambiance, every detail at Circa 1886 is designed to make your evening extraordinary. Whether it’s a special occasion or simply the desire to indulge, we’re here to elevate your night. Book your table and savor the magic of Charleston’s finest dining. 🍽️

    #Circa1886 #CharlestonDining #FineDining #CharlestonEats #Foodie
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    ✨ Celebrate National Espresso Martini Day in style at Circa 1886! Indulge in the perfect blend of rich coffee flavor and smooth vodka - crafted to perfection for those who appreciate the finer things in life. Cheers to the bold, the refined, and the irresistible! 🍸☕ Book ow through the link in our bio!

    #Circa1886 #Cocktails #Cocktailsofinstagram #Cocktailsforyou #FineDining #SouthernCuisine #EspressoMartini #NationalEspressoMartiniDay
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    Looking for a wine tasting experience that goes beyond the basics? Indulge in a private session with expert guidance, interactive discussions, and top-tier wines that will elevate your palate. Whether you’re a connoisseur or a beginner, it’s the perfect way to dive deeper into the world of wine. Join our master sommelier John Riddick for the exclusive experience of Secrets of the Sommeliers today through the link in our bio 🍷

    #WineTasting #WineLovers #CharlestonExperience #FineDining #Circa1886
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    Enthralled by this mouthwatering dish? So are we! 🤩 Sign up for The Dish, Circa 1886’s exclusive newsletter, and be the first to savor new menu creations, special events, and behind-the-scenes insights from our team. Don’t miss a bite—subscribe through the link in our bio today!

    #Circa1886 #Cocktails #Cocktailsofinstagram #CharlestonEats #FineDining #SouthernCuisine
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    Last evening, Circa 1886 celebrated its 25th anniversary with friends, family, and loyal guests. The evening was perfect—from the beautiful fresh flowers to the expertly selected wine pairings to the delectable menu featuring guest favorites from past menus.

    “We’re so grateful for the support of this community,” shared Rick Widman, owner and founder of Circa 1886. “It’s the team that has made this all possible. Thank you to everyone who has supported us over the past 25 years, and especially to Chef Marc Collins—he’s not only the greatest chef in town, but he’s an even greater person.”

    The laughter and joy in the room were palpable—a true testament to the incredible community that has embraced Circa 1886 over the years. Cheers to the memories made, the meals shared, and many more years of unforgettable dining experiences to come! 🥂

    #circa1886 #charlestonrestaurants #finedining #anniversary #charminginns
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    Rainy days have us craving this indulgent duo. 🦞✨ Our Open Face Brioche Lobster “Roll” with chives, paired with silky Lobster Bisque, is the perfect bite—and it’s just the first course of our Ashley Tasting Menu. Who’s in? 🍽️

    #circa1886 #finedining #lobster #foodie #charleston
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    52 2

    We take great pleasure in helping our guests celebrate life’s special moments, and this recent review is a wonderful reminder that both visitors and locals trust Circa 1886 for an intimate and unforgettable experience. Whether you`re seated in the main dining room, the cozy wine room, the private garden room, or enjoying a crafted cocktail at the bar, we’re honored to be part of your celebration. Join us for your next special occasion—or simply because you deserve a night to be pampered! 🥂🍷✨

    #Circa1886 #PrivateDining #FineDining #DateNight #Celebration
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    See what one of our valued guests loved about their dining experience at Circa 1886! We’re grateful for our wonderful guests who make every meal unforgettable. We hope you will come savor the flavors for yourself—reserve your table today!

    #Testimonials #Charleston #SouthernCharm #Circa1886
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    Happy snow day number two! We hope everyone has been staying safe and warm during this unusual weather! ❄

    Due to the lingering snow and ice, as you see here in our parking lot, we are sadly unable to open this evening.

    We look forward to welcoming everyone back tomorrow!
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