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

    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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    We are ONE WEEK away from the series premiere of Wizards of Baking! Watch as our very own @pastry_chef_ashley competes against other talented bakers to create edible masterpieces inspired by the wizarding world of Harry Potter. Don’t miss this enchanting series - tune in to see Ashley’s wizardry in action!

    Tune in to the series premiere on the Food Network on Thursday, November 14 @ 8|7c or stream on @streamonmax!

    #WizardsofBaking #FoodNetwork #HarryPotter #Desserts
    ...

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    Dinner for two, crafted to perfection! Indulge in a memorable evening at Circa 1886, where each dish is a work of art, and the ambiance is set for a night to savor. Whether it`s a romantic night out or a special occasion, let us elevate your evening with exquisite flavors and attentive service.
    Reserve your table today and experience fine dining like never before!
    #FineDining #Charleston #CharlestonDining #HolyCity #GoodEats
    ...

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    Give thanks—and treat yourself!
    Circa 1886 will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, November 28, but our doors are open for regular service the evening before on Wednesday, November 27. Join us for a warm, delicious start to the holiday! Reserve your table today and savor the flavors of the season!

    #Thanksgiving #November #News #Charleston #FineDining
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    Always leave room for dessert, especially when it`s as decadent as ours. Our pastry chef has crafted a menu of sweet delights that will satisfy any craving. From classic favorites to innovative creations, there`s something for everyone!

    Indulge in a slice of heaven and make your dining experience complete! Book your table now!
    #desserts #cake #pie #fall #finedining #charlestondesserts
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    Indulge in a taste of true artistry with our newest addition to the Fall Ashley Tasting Menu: Fried Poulet Rouge, finished with luxurious caviar, delicate gold leaf, preserved Roma tomatoes, and a touch of pickle buttermilk dressing.

    Dive into this extraordinary dish and elevate your evening at Circa 1886! Ready to treat yourself? Reserve your table now and experience the magic!

    #FineDining #Charleston #CharlestonDining #ExploreCharleston
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    We are less than ONE MONTH away from the premiere of #WizardsofBaking on the Food Network!

    Be sure to tune in and watch our very own @pastry_chef_ashley create some incredible pieces inspired by Harry Potter!
    #harrypotter #baking #desserts #foodnetwork
    ...

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    Happy National Dessert Day! 🍰✨ Today, we’re celebrating with some of the sweet creations by our talented Pastry Chef Ashley, who brings a fresh twist to classic Southern desserts. From decadent Carrot Cake Baked Alaska to delicate, seasonal treats, every bite is a work of art. Indulge your sweet tooth and experience why dessert at Circa 1886 is the perfect way to end a fine dining experience!

    #nationaldessertday #desserts #pastry #finedining
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