Business Details
Elevated Culinary Experience in Historic Charleston
At Circa 1886, we have dedicated ourselves to crafting an unparalleled dining experience that seamlessly blends historic elegance with modern culinary innovation. Since our establishment, we have remained committed to sourcing the finest seasonal ingredients and showcasing the rich flavors of the Lowcountry through meticulously curated tasting menus and refined la carte offerings. Our team, led by award-winning Executive Chef Marc Collins, brings decades of expertise and a passion for hospitality to every plate we serve.Nestled within the iconic Wentworth Mansion, our restaurant offers an intimate setting where original architectural details meet warm Southern service. Recognized by TripAdvisor, Wine Spectator, and AAA as a top-tier dining destination, we continue to elevate expectations with private event spaces, interactive culinary experiences, and a dedication to community engagement through local partnerships and charitable initiatives.
Services
Tasting Menus
La Carte Dining
Private Events
Wine Pairings
Seasonal Menus
Highlights and features
- Award-winning executive chef with 20+ years of culinary expertise
- Curated seasonal tasting menus featuring local Lowcountry ingredients
- Recognized among TripAdvisor's Top 1% Worldwide Restaurants
- Historic venue offering intimate private dining experiences
- Award-winning sommelier-led wine pairing programs
Associations and certifications
- AAA Four Diamond
- Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence
- TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice
What people say
Elevated dining experience
Imaginative tasting menus
Seasonal ingredients
Intimate setting
Memorable events
Services
Tasting Menus
Our curated tasting menus feature seasonal ingredients transformed through modern techniques. The Ashley and Cooper menus offer five courses each, showcasing Chef Marc Collins' creativity with dishes like Foie Gras Custard and Sichuan Duck. Wine pairings enhance each course, creating a complete sensory journey that has earned us Wine Spectator recognition.
Private Events
We specialize in intimate celebrations and corporate gatherings in historic spaces. The Garden Room accommodates 12 guests, while the Tack Room hosts up to 40. Full restaurant buyouts allow exclusive access to all areas for weddings or milestone events, with customized menus and dedicated planning support from our experienced team.
Wine Pairings
Our sommelier-curated wine programs complement every dining experience. Certified Sommelier Anne Hampton leads interactive wine classes and creates pairings that enhance our tasting menus. The restaurant has received Wine Spectator's Best of Award of Excellence for its extensive collection featuring both classic and innovative selections.
Seasonal Menus
Menus change with the seasons to showcase the freshest Lowcountry ingredients. Executive Chef Ashley Cardona's pastry program features seasonal souffls and desserts using local produce. The la carte menu includes dishes like 1855 Black Angus Beef Tenderloin and Groupers sourced from regional waters, reflecting our commitment to supporting local farmers and artisans.
Interactive Classes
Guests can participate in hands-on mixology and wine classes led by our experts. 'Shaking with the Seasons' teaches cocktail creation using seasonal ingredients, while sommelier-led sessions explore wine pairings. These immersive experiences provide insight into our culinary philosophy and allow guests to recreate elements of our tasting menus at home.
People
Marc Collins
Executive Chef
With over 20 years as executive chef at Circa 1886, Marc Collins has earned recognition as a 2019 South Carolina Chef Ambassador and recipient of the Local Food Champion award. His culinary journey began aboard a presidential yacht and includes creating the Charleston Wine + Food Festival.
Ashley Cardona
Executive Pastry Chef
Executive Pastry Chef Ashley Cardona brings a decade of luxury hospitality experience, combining French techniques with Southern heritage. She graduated from Johnson & Wales University and trained at France's National School of Pastry, creating modern Southern desserts that have become menu highlights.
Anne Hampton
Sommelier
Certified Sommelier Anne Hampton curates our award-winning wine program, making wine accessible through educational pairings. With experience at top-tier restaurants, she returned to Circa 1886 after expanding her expertise in spirits and wine certifications, enhancing our guests' dining experiences.
Rick Widman
Owner
With 60 combined years in hospitality, Rick Widman co-owns Circa 1886 and serves on the international board of Small Luxury Hotels of the World. He previously chaired Charleston Wine + Food and currently advises the College of Charleston's hospitality program.
Michelle Widman Woodhull
President
President Michelle Widman Woodhull has served Circa 1886 for over two decades, previously holding marketing and revenue management roles. A Purdue University graduate, she oversees restaurant operations while maintaining the establishment's financial excellence and strategic direction.
Questions
Do you take reservations?
Reservations are highly recommended and can be made via Resy or by calling (843) 853-7828 due to limited seating capacity.
What is your dress code?
Resort casual attire is recommended with dress pants and collared shirts for men, dresses or skirts for women, and jackets optional.
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
We accommodate dietary needs with advance notice, though substitutions aren't available on tasting menus. Contact us directly to discuss requirements.
Do you have parking available?
We offer 10 designated front spaces and nearby street parking, with the closest garage located 4 blocks away at 153 Market Street.
Are children allowed?
Due to our intimate setting, we recommend against bringing young children as the environment isn't suited for strollers or high chairs.
Do you source local ingredients?
We partner with local farmers and artisans to create one-of-a-kind dishes showcasing the freshest Lowcountry ingredients in every season.
