At Circa 1886, we believe that a truly great event is defined by the harmony of its surroundings and the excellence of its table. nestled in the original carriage house of the historic Wentworth Mansion, every gathering is elevated into a sensory journey. Whether you are joining us for one of our signature traditions—like our evocative Dickens Dinner or bespoke wine dinners—or hosting an intimate private celebration, our storied walls provide the perfect elegant backdrop. Here, Executive Chef Marc Collins’ innovative takes on Lowcountry cuisine meet a level of personalized service that ensures your occasion is not just hosted, but masterfully curated.
David Tate
Thursday, May 21, at 6:30 pm
Limited Seating!
Circa 1886 is proud to announce its first signature Wine Dinner of 2026. On Thursday, May 21, at 6:30 pm, guests are invited to “An Evening with David Tate” featuring a rare tasting experience guided by one of the industry’s most respected vintners. David is an acclaimed winemaker for Barnett Vineyards and owner and winemaker of Tate Wine.
Throughout the five-course dinner, guests will have intimate access to Mr. Tate as he shares the stories behind his highly sought-after, small-production selections. Highlighting the rarity of the evening, several of the featured wines are produced in micro-quantities—some as limited as just three to five barrels per vintage.
$195 per person plus tax and gratuity.
Call 843-853-7828 or click below!
The Early Evening Culinary Experience
Limited Time!
Join us for an intimate start to your evening at Circa 1886. For a limited time, guests joining us for 5:00 pm or 5:15 pm reservations are invited to enjoy a curated three-course experience from our celebrated à la carte menu.
Three Courses | $85 per person+ tax & gratuity
Select one appetizer, one entrée, and one dessert from the seasonal highlights below:
Call 843-853-7828 or click below!
Chef Marc Collins' 25th Anniversary
Throughout June, we invite you to join us at Circa 1886 to honor Chef Marc Collins with a series of special touches and experiences.
Enjoy a creative nod to his namesake with the Marc Collins cocktail, a unique twist on the classic Tom Collins featuring Jimmy Red Bourbon Whiskey from High Wire Distilling. Guests will also have the opportunity to savor the return of his celebrated Grilled Cheese—one of the most-requested dishes from past menus—featured on our à la carte menu.
As a special thank you, every guest who dines with us in June will be entered to win one of two unforgettable experiences: a one-night stay at Wentworth Mansion® with dinner alongside Chef Collins at Circa 1886, or a private dinner for six prepared by the Chef in your own home (must live locally).
Join us in celebrating the creativity, craftsmanship, and legacy of Chef Collins all month long.
Call 843-853-7828 to book a reservation or click below!
Every Inch a Gentleman
Thursday, June 25, 2026 | 6:30pm and 7:00pm Seatings
In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, Storyteller, Tim Lowry, portraying a blue-blooded South Carolina planter dressed in high colonial fashion, will tell stories passed around fashionable parlors, dining tables, and hearth fires on the eve of the American Revolution. He explores folk songs, social customs, fancy dress, folk tales, and the Gullah language, all culminating in the Battle of Fort Sullivan, which became a legend even before the cannons had cooled. This show had its world premiere at the 41st National Storytelling Festival and has been in popular demand ever since.
$135 per person plus tax and gratuity.
Four-Course Menu Coming Soon!
Call 843-853-7828 or click below!
Spirits of The Lowcountry
Thursday, October 29, 2026 | 6:30pm & 7:00pm Seatings
Circa 1886 is excited to invite you to an unforgettable evening where Lowcountry folklore comes to life with long-time friend and professional storyteller, Tim Lowry.
Tim Lowry—known for his captivating performances at Circa 1886’s annual “Dickens Dinner”—brings this immersive dining experience to life, drawing from the haunting and lyrical tales of The Doctor to the Dead by Charleston Renaissance author John Bennett.
Through lyrical language, Lowry conjures voices from Charleston’s past—stories shaped by African and Gullah Geechee traditions and whispered through generations. Paired with a multi-course dinner by Chef Marc Collins, Spirits of the Lowcountry is an elegant celebration of history, mystery, and the art of storytelling in one of Charleston’s most storied dining rooms.
$135 per person plus tax and gratuity.
Four-Course Menu Coming Soon!
Call 843-853-7828 or click below!
Dickens Dinner
December 2, 9, 16, 23, 2026
6:30pm & 7:00pm Seatings
For more than two decades, Circa 1886 and storyteller Tim Lowry have transported guests to Victorian England for a captivating retelling of Charles Dickens’ beloved A Christmas Carol. What began as a collaboration between a rising Charleston storyteller and a new fine dining restaurant has become one of the city’s most cherished holiday traditions.
Inspired by Dickens’ original 1867 reading tour, Lowry’s performance—paired with a four-course dinner from Chef Marc Collins—beautifully blends literature, culinary artistry, and the spirit of the season. Experience a festive evening where timeless storytelling meets exquisite cuisine in the heart of historic Charleston.
$135 per person plus tax and gratuity.
Four-Course Menu Coming Soon!
New Year's Eve Dinner
Thursday, December 31, 2026
Ring in the New Year in the elegance of Circa 1886. Join us for an unforgettable evening featuring a thoughtfully curated multi-course dinner prepared by Executive Chef Marc Collins. Surrounded by the historic charm of our original carriage house at Wentworth Mansion®, guests will enjoy an intimate and celebratory atmosphere perfect for friends, family, or a romantic night out. Let us help you toast to new beginnings with an evening of refined cuisine, warm hospitality, and memories that will last a lifetime.
Menu coming soon.
Call 843-853-7828 or book by clicking below.
Valentine's Day Dinner
Celebrate love with an unforgettable six-course dining experience set on the beautiful grounds of Wentworth Mansion in the heart of downtown Charleston. Enjoy an elegant evening of thoughtfully curated cuisine, romantic ambiance, and exceptional service—perfect for a special night out.
Call 843-853-7828 or book by clicking below.
Shaking with the Seasons Cocktail Class
Discover the art of seasonal mixology in this hands-on, hour-long experience. Guests will explore a variety of spirits, learn how to craft cocktails that highlight fresh, local ingredients, and gain tips for creating perfect libations at home. Each participant will enjoy two expertly prepared cocktails and a cheese board, making for a deliciously interactive session.
Hosted by Denis Kats
“You can’t buy happiness, but you can prepare a good drink—pretty much the same thing! Join us for cocktails, conversation, and a few happy moments.”
What’s Included:
2 Cocktails per Guest
1 Cheese Plate per Couple
Secrets of the Sommeliers
Discover the art and science behind wine in this approachable, hands-on experience. Hosted by Circa 1886’s Wine Director, Anne Hampton, who earned Certified Sommelier status with the Court of Master Sommeliers in 2021, as well as Certified Specialist of Wine and Certified Specialist of Spirits with the Society of Wine Educators, guests will explore how grape variety, soil, climate, and terroir influence flavor. Learn to confidently read wine lists and select the perfect bottle, all while enjoying a guided tasting of four wines. Anne’s expertise makes wine approachable, fun, and memorable.
What’s included:
Guided tasting of 4 wines
