Most Romantic Dinner Spot in Charleston | Circa 1886 downtown Harleston Village SC

Circa 1886 Restaurant, nestled in the heart of Charleston, South Carolina, offers a unique blend of culinary artistry and historic charm. Established in 2000, it has since been a beacon of exceptional dining experiences.

A Taste of History

Situated within the original carriage house of Wentworth Mansion®, Circa 1886 exudes the romance and nostalgia of historic downtown Charleston. Its ambiance, with original pine floors and quaint architectural details, sets the stage for a memorable dining adventure.

Culinary Artistry

At Circa 1886, we pride ourselves on presenting a diverse menu that showcases a fusion of flavors, embracing the essence of Southern hospitality. From classic favorites to innovative creations, each dish is crafted with precision and passion, promising a culinary journey like no other.

Impeccable Hospitality

Our commitment to excellence extends beyond the plate. With unrivaled Southern hospitality, we aim to ensure that every guest feels welcomed and valued. Whether it’s a special occasion or a casual evening out, Circa 1886 promises an unforgettable dining experience.

Contact Information

• Phone: +1 843-853-7828
• Email: info@circa1886.com
• Website: circa1886.com
• Menu: View Menu
• Reservation: Make Reservation
• Social Media: Facebook | Instagram

Important Information

• Children Policy: Due to our intimate setting, we kindly request guests not to bring young children, as our ambiance may not be suitable. We do not offer a separate kids’ menu.
• Late Arrivals: If you’re running late, please call us at (843) 853-7828, and we’ll do our best to accommodate your reservation.
• Parking: Limited parking is available on-site, with additional options on surrounding streets and nearby garages.
• Dress Code: Our dress code is resort casual. Gentlemen are encouraged to wear collared shirts and dress slacks, while we request no flip flops or casual shorts.

Restaurant Details

• Price Range: $25 – $45
• Cuisines: American, Contemporary
• Special Diets: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
• Meals: Dinner, Late Night
• Features: Reservations, Private Dining, Seating, Street Parking, Free off-street parking, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Accepts Major Credit Cards, Table Service

Experience the charm and flavors of Circa 1886, where history meets gastronomy in a delightful fusion of taste and tradition.

10 Compelling Reasons to Experience Circa 1886 Restaurant

1. Recommended Dishes Galore:
   • Guests consistently praise Circa 1886 for its tantalizing array of dishes that never fail to impress. From the sumptuous Taw Foie Gras to the creamy Lobster Risotto and succulent Grouper, each dish is a masterpiece of flavor and texture. The seasonal soufflé is particularly celebrated, with its ethereal taste and unforgettable presentation leaving diners enchanted. Whether you’re a seafood aficionado or a lover of rich, savory flavors, Circa 1886 offers a culinary journey that satisfies every palate.
2. Romantic Ambiance:
   • Stepping into Circa 1886 is like entering a fairy tale, where the romance of a bygone era intertwines with the magic of modern cuisine. The restaurant’s intimate setting, nestled within the original carriage house of Wentworth Mansion®, sets the stage for a truly enchanting dining experience. The soft glow of candlelight, the rustic charm of exposed brick walls, and the gentle murmur of conversation create an atmosphere that is both intimate and unforgettable. Whether you’re celebrating a special anniversary or simply enjoying a romantic evening out, Circa 1886 offers the perfect backdrop for love to blossom.
3. Exceptional Service:
   • At Circa 1886, hospitality is not just a job—it’s a passion. From the moment you step through the door, you’re greeted with warmth and sincerity by the attentive staff. Whether it’s a friendly smile from your server or a thoughtful recommendation from the sommelier, every member of the team is dedicated to ensuring that your dining experience is nothing short of extraordinary. With their meticulous attention to detail and genuine enthusiasm for hospitality, the staff at Circa 1886 elevate every aspect of your visit, making you feel like a cherished guest from start to finish.
4. Impeccable Presentation:
   • They say that we eat with our eyes first, and at Circa 1886, every dish is a work of art worthy of admiration. From the exquisite plating to the meticulous attention to detail, each dish is crafted with care and precision, transforming the dining experience into a visual feast as well as a culinary delight. Whether it’s a delicate amuse-bouche or a decadent dessert, every plate that emerges from the kitchen is a testament to the chef’s skill and creativity, inviting diners to savor every moment of their meal.
5. Variety of Tasting Menus:
   • For those eager to explore the full spectrum of Circa 1886’s culinary offerings, the restaurant offers a variety of tasting menus designed to showcase the best of what the kitchen has to offer. From the Chef’s Tasting Menu, featuring an inspired selection of seasonal delights, to the Seafood Tasting Menu, highlighting the freshest catches from local waters, there’s something to tantalize every taste bud. Each tasting menu is a culinary journey unto itself, offering a curated selection of dishes that promise to surprise and delight.
6. Extensive Wine Selection:
   • No meal at Circa 1886 is complete without the perfect wine pairing, and luckily, the restaurant boasts an extensive wine list curated by knowledgeable sommeliers. Whether you prefer a crisp Chardonnay to complement your seafood or a bold Cabernet Sauvignon to accompany your steak, there’s a bottle to suit every taste and occasion. With expert recommendations and impeccable service, Circa 1886 ensures that every sip is as memorable as every bite.
7. Gluten-Free Options:
   • For diners with dietary restrictions, Circa 1886 offers a range of gluten-free options that are as delicious as they are accommodating. From appetizers to entrees to desserts, every dish is carefully crafted to meet the highest standards of taste and quality, ensuring that no one has to sacrifice flavor for dietary needs. With gluten-free offerings that rival their traditional counterparts in both taste and presentation, Circa 1886 ensures that everyone can enjoy a fabulous meal without compromise.
8. Warm and Upscale Atmosphere:
   • Despite its elegant surroundings, Circa 1886 maintains a warm and welcoming atmosphere that puts guests at ease from the moment they arrive. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a night out with friends, the restaurant’s cozy ambiance and attentive service create an environment that is both upscale and inviting. From the soft lighting to the comfortable seating, every detail is designed to enhance the dining experience and make guests feel right at home.
9. Consistent Excellence:
   • With over two decades of culinary excellence under its belt, Circa 1886 has earned its reputation as one of Charleston’s premier dining destinations. Whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth, you can always count on Circa 1886 to deliver an exceptional dining experience from start to finish. From the quality of the ingredients to the skill of the chefs to the professionalism of the staff, everything about Circa 1886 is consistently excellent, ensuring that every meal is a memorable one.
10. Enduring Legacy:
    • Since its inception, Circa 1886 has carved out a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike, becoming a beloved fixture of Charleston’s culinary scene. With its rich history, exquisite cuisine, and unwavering commitment to excellence, Circa 1886 has stood the test of time, remaining a timeless destination for those seeking a truly exceptional dining experience. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime patron, Circa 1886 promises a culinary journey that will leave a lasting impression for years to come.

From the delectable dishes to the charming ambiance and impeccable service, Circa 1886 offers a dining experience that is truly unparalleled. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a night out, Circa 1886 promises an unforgettable culinary journey that will leave you longing for more.

10 Not-So-Great Aspects of Circa 1886 Restaurant

1. Disliked Dishes:
   • While some dishes received rave reviews, others fell short of expectations. From the odd combination of flavors in the Grouper dish to the lackluster Beef Tenderloin, there were several disappointments on the menu. Additionally, the presentation of certain dishes, like the Corn Romaine Salad with Crunchy Rice, left much to be desired, with crunchy rice that tasted uncooked and dressing that lacked flavor.
2. Hit-or-Miss Wine Pairings:
   • Despite the reputation of Circa 1886’s wine list, the wine pairings were hit-or-miss for many diners. While some found the pairings to be spot-on, others felt that they didn’t enhance the dining experience as expected. This inconsistency in wine pairing quality detracted from the overall enjoyment of the meal.
3. Pre-Prepared Courses:
   • Several diners noted that the first two courses felt like they were pre-prepared and lacked the freshness and quality expected from a fine dining establishment. The conveyor belt-like presentation of these courses, served just out of the fridge, diminished the dining experience and left diners underwhelmed.
4. Rushed Service:
   • Despite the polite demeanor of the servers, many diners felt that the service was rushed, detracting from the overall ambiance of the restaurant. This rushed pace made diners feel as though they were being hurried through their meal, preventing them from fully savoring each course and enjoying the experience.
5. Overseasoned and Overcooked Dishes:
   • Some dishes, such as the overseasoned Filet and the overcooked Grouper, failed to meet the expectations of diners. Overseasoning and overcooking resulted in flavors that were overpowering and textures that were less than ideal, detracting from the enjoyment of the meal.
6. Underwhelming Ambiance:
   • Despite being housed in a beautiful carriage house, the ambiance at Circa 1886 fell short of expectations for many diners. Some described the atmosphere as bland and lacking in life, with a formal and overly mannered vibe that detracted from the overall dining experience.
7. Condescending Hostess:
   • Several diners were put off by the condescending demeanor of the hostess, who failed to provide a warm and welcoming greeting upon arrival. This lack of basic hospitality left a negative impression on diners and detracted from the overall experience.
8. High Price for Average Quality:
   • While Circa 1886 positions itself as a top-tier dining destination, many diners felt that the high prices did not align with the quality of the food and service. For the amount spent, diners expected every aspect of the meal to exceed expectations, but were left feeling disappointed by the overall value.
9. Forgettable Cocktails and Mediocre Wine List:
   • Despite the extensive wine list, some diners found the cocktails to be forgettable and the wine list to be mediocre at best. This lackluster beverage selection detracted from the overall dining experience and failed to complement the quality of the cuisine.
10. Unwelcoming Attitude Towards Diners:
    • Some diners felt unwelcome due to the entitled attitude displayed by certain staff members, particularly towards guests who did not fit a certain perceived profile. This attitude left diners feeling excluded and detracted from the overall enjoyment of the dining experience.

Overall, while Circa 1886 may excel in certain aspects such as food presentation and service professionalism, there are areas where improvements are needed to ensure a consistently exceptional dining experience for all guests.

10 Important FAQs About Circa 1886 Restaurant

1. What is the ambiance like at Circa 1886 Restaurant?
   • Circa 1886 Restaurant boasts a romantic and historic ambiance, set within the original carriage house of Wentworth Mansion®. Its intimate setting, with original pine floors and charming architectural details, creates a unique and memorable dining atmosphere.
2. What type of cuisine does Circa 1886 offer?
   • Circa 1886 offers a blend of American and contemporary cuisine, with a focus on Southern hospitality and flavors. From classic favorites to innovative creations, each dish is crafted with precision and passion, promising a culinary journey like no other.
3. Does Circa 1886 accommodate dietary restrictions?
   • Yes, Circa 1886 offers a range of options for guests with dietary restrictions, including vegetarian-friendly, vegan options, and gluten-free options. Every dish is carefully crafted to meet the highest standards of taste and quality, ensuring that all guests can enjoy a fabulous meal without compromise.
4. How is the service at Circa 1886?
   • The service at Circa 1886 is exceptional, with a dedicated team committed to ensuring that every guest feels welcomed and valued. From friendly smiles to thoughtful recommendations, every aspect of the service is designed to enhance the dining experience and make guests feel like cherished patrons.
5. Is parking available at Circa 1886?
   • Limited parking is available on-site at Circa 1886, with additional options on surrounding streets and nearby garages. Guests are encouraged to plan accordingly and arrive early to secure parking.
6. Does Circa 1886 offer tasting menus?
   • Yes, Circa 1886 offers a variety of tasting menus designed to showcase the best of what the kitchen has to offer. From the Chef’s Tasting Menu to the Seafood Tasting Menu, there’s something to tantalize every taste bud and create a memorable dining experience.
7. What is the dress code at Circa 1886?
   • The dress code at Circa 1886 is resort casual. Gentlemen are encouraged to wear collared shirts and dress slacks, while flip flops or casual shorts are discouraged. This ensures a sophisticated dining atmosphere for all guests.
8. How can I make a reservation at Circa 1886?
   • Reservations can be made by calling +1 843-853-7828 or visiting the Circa 1886 website. With its popularity, it’s recommended to make reservations in advance to secure your desired dining time.
9. Does Circa 1886 cater to families with children?
   • Due to its intimate setting, Circa 1886 kindly requests that guests refrain from bringing young children, as the ambiance may not be suitable. There is no separate kids’ menu available.
10. What are the price ranges for dishes at Circa 1886?
    • The price range for dishes at Circa 1886 typically falls between $25 and $45, offering a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences.

For more information, visit Circa 1886’s official website or contact them directly via phone or email.
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