What locals are saying
Circa 1886 is broadly considered one of Charleston's top fine-dining destinations, set inside the historic Wentworth Mansion carriage house with Chef Marc Collins at the helm for over two decades. Locals and regulars consistently single out the impeccable service and the tasting menus with wine pairings as the reason to go, calling it their favorite restaurant in a city full of strong competition. A minority note it skews heavily toward special occasions and, at the $$$$ price tier, some wonder whether repeat visits make sense given rivals like FIG.
On socials
Posts and influencer write-ups consistently point to the Ashley and Cooper six-course tasting menus as the main event — the top tip shared across platforms is to order one each with a dining partner and split bites to experience both. Standout dishes people rave about include the Sichuan-style duck (Ashley menu), grilled pimento cheese with prosciutto and paddlefish caviar, foie gras flan with pickled pearl onions, and the apple rum soufflé. The carriage house setting inside the Wentworth Mansion is described repeatedly as 'fairytale,' 'romantic,' and a top pick for anniversaries and celebrations — one Reddit commenter widely circulated online calls it comparable to Michelin-starred restaurants worldwide. Wine pairings and attentive, personalized service (including custom printed menus for anniversaries) are recurring praise points.
Who it’s for & what you get
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Vegetarian options
- Coffee
- Beer
- Wine
- Cocktails
- Dine-in
- Reservations
- Good for groups
- Wheelchair accessible
- Restroom
- Free parking
Frequently asked
Is Circa 1886 Restaurant one of the best restaurants in Charleston?
Circa 1886 Restaurant is ranked #53 restaurant in Charleston by community votes.
What is Circa 1886 Restaurant best known for?
Romantic pick with a seasonal & local menu of elevated Lowcountry cuisine plus extensive wine list.
Who should go to Circa 1886 Restaurant?
Circa 1886 Restaurant works well for both locals and visitors looking for a quality restaurant in Charleston.
Where is Circa 1886 Restaurant located?
Circa 1886 Restaurant is located at 149 Wentworth St, Charleston, Charleston, SC.
Join the conversation
Have a take?
Sign in to share what you really think.
- No comments yet. Be the first to weigh in.
Similar restaurants in Charleston
Edmund's Oast
Brewery + restaurant on Morrison Drive with a 40-tap list and a serious patio.
Halls Chophouse
Sizable cuts of beef & seafood served in elegant surrounds, also known for its Sunday gospel brunch.
Big Gun Burger Shop & Bar
Compact hideaway with creative burgers, craft drafts, classic cocktails & Southern small plates.
Virginia's On King
Upscale eatery uses family recipes to create Southern comfort foods for breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Nearby in Downtown
Gregory Blake Sams Events
Boutique wedding planning firm on Wentworth Street, handling coordination and design for Charleston-area ceremonies and receptions.
Beyond Exhibitions Charleston
Rotating immersive art installations in a Beaufain Street gallery space, wheelchair accessible.
WORTHWHILE
Upscale women's boutique selling clothing, shoes, accessories & body products in a chic space.
The Smith Brian
Wedding planning firm on Market Street with a perfect five-star rating across 33 reviews.
GIBSON HAIR AND MAKEUP
Industrial-chic parlor offering hair coloring, cuts & styling, plus makeup, lash & waxing services.
Spa Azure Downtown Charleston
Full-service day spa on Broad Street offering massage, skin care, and body treatments in a quiet suite setting.