Since opening its doors in January of 2000, Circa 1886 has become a celebrated culinary destination in Charleston, offering not only exquisite dining but also a reflection of the city’s rich culinary traditions. Housed in the original carriage house of the Wentworth Mansion®, the restaurant has evolved over the years into a cherished establishment, known for its refined atmosphere and dedication to culinary excellence. The journey, however, was not without its challenges.

The Vision Behind Circa 1886

The idea for Circa 1886 came from a desire to offer guests a truly complete experience during their stay at Wentworth Mansion®. “We wanted to create a memorable and immersive experience,” the founders, Rick Widman and Linn Lesesne explain. Recognizing that a fine dining restaurant would elevate the Wentworth Mansion®’s appeal and bolster its status within a prestigious hotel marketing group like Small Luxury Hotels of the World, the decision was made to open a restaurant in the mansion’s original carriage house.

From the very beginning, the goal was to create a more intimate and relaxed dining experience, one that prioritized culinary excellence while showcasing Charleston’s rich culinary history. The vision was to provide a space where guests could enjoy exceptional food in a refined yet welcoming setting.

Overcoming Early Challenges

Despite the clear vision, the restaurant faced some hurdles in its early years. One of the most pressing challenges was its location. Off the “beaten path” of Charleston’s more traditional dining areas, Circa 1886 initially struggled to attract diners. It took hard work, consistent promotion, and a commitment to quality to build a solid reputation.

Another obstacle came just 1 ½ years after opening when the restaurant experienced a change in chefs. “It felt like starting over,” Rick and Linn reflect, noting that the transition was difficult both operationally and financially. The low volume of diners early on added further strain, making it even more critical to establish Circa 1886 as a sought-after dining destination.

Proudest Moments

Despite the early challenges, Circa 1886 has garnered many proud moments over the years. Rick and Linn share that among the most notable was the hiring of Chef Marc Collins in 2001. “Chef Collins is not only an extraordinary chef, he’s also been an invaluable business partner and a dear friend”.

National recognition followed in the form of features in Bon Appétit Magazine, which affirmed their vision and dedication to excellence. Hosting Southern Living Magazine’s 50th Anniversary Dinner was another proud moment, a true milestone that highlighted Circa 1886’s place within Charleston’s culinary scene. The founders also take great pride in seeing their dining rooms fill over time and hearing positive feedback from their guests.

The Evolution of Circa 1886

Circa 1886’s evolution has been shaped by a constant commitment to refining the menu and elevating service standards. Over the past 25 years, the restaurant has transformed into one of the top dining spots not just in Charleston, but nationally.

This success is the result of embracing growth and innovation while remaining true to the core values of creativity and quality. Over the years, Circa 1886 has refined its offerings, ensuring that every guest receives a memorable and unique experience.

Adapting to Changing Trends

In addition to refining its menu, Circa 1886 has been quick to adapt to evolving culinary trends and customer preferences. Embracing the farm-to-table concept, the restaurant places a strong emphasis on local sourcing and showcasing the finest ingredients Charleston has to offer. The menu has also expanded to accommodate dietary restrictions, vegetarian options, and non-alcoholic drink selections.

The introduction of tasting menus has further enhanced the dining experience, allowing guests to enjoy a curated selection of dishes that highlight the best seasonal offerings. Additionally, the restaurant’s wine list has continually expanded, ensuring it complements the evolving menu and enhances the overall dining experience.

Looking Ahead: Long-Term Goals

The future of Circa 1886 is rooted in a commitment to excellence and recognition. The restaurant aims to remain one of Charleston’s top dining destinations while achieving greater national acclaim. If Michelin begins reviewing Charleston restaurants, Circa 1886 aspires to earn at least one rosette, further solidifying its place among the nation’s finest dining experiences. Above all, the founders remain dedicated to providing exceptional cuisine and service, ensuring every guest enjoys a memorable dining experience.

Giving Back to the Charleston Community

Since its opening, Circa 1886 has been deeply committed to supporting the local Charleston community. The restaurant has participated in numerous fundraising events to benefit local non-profit organizations, demonstrating a long-standing dedication to giving back.

Additionally, Charming Inns®, the parent company of Circa 1886, has established a scholarship at Trident Technical College within the School of Hospitality and Tourism. This initiative helps foster the next generation of hospitality professionals and strengthens the restaurant’s ties to the local community.

Local Partnerships and Collaborations

Circa 1886 has benefited from several key partnerships that have played an instrumental role in its success. The ongoing relationship with Explore Charleston has been invaluable in promoting both the restaurant and Chef Marc Collins to a wider audience. Furthermore, Chef Collins’ role as a founder of the Charleston Wine + Food Festival, along with Rick and Linn’s continued involvement, has been a significant collaboration, allowing Circa 1886 to connect with the culinary community and contribute to Charleston’s reputation as a top dining destination.

Cherished Memories and Milestones

Reflecting on the past 25 years, Rick and Linn share many cherished memories. Some of the most notable include their wedding dinner celebration on New Year’s Eve in 1999, just before the official opening of the restaurant. Other highlights include hosting wine dinners with renowned winemakers, the unforgettable Southern Living Magazine 50th Anniversary Dinner, and the prestigious AAA Five Diamond Award Dinner.

Additional standout moments include the magical Fourth of July celebrations on the lawn, the beloved Progressive and Dickens Dinners, and memorable Charleston Wine + Food Signature Dinners featuring guest chefs like Frank Stitt. The Wine + Food Truffle and Bubbles Dinner was another particularly special event. These moments reflect the spirit and passion that have made Circa 1886 a beloved Charleston institution.

A Legacy of Excellence

As Circa 1886 celebrates its 25th anniversary, the story of the restaurant is one of passion and dedication by the entire Circa staff. From its modest beginnings to its status as a premier dining destination, Circa 1886 has remained true to its vision while embracing growth and change. With an eye on the future and a commitment to excellence, the restaurant continues to offer guests a unique and unforgettable dining experience, contributing to Charleston’s rich culinary legacy.