Review: Circa 1886

What were your first impressions when you arrived? 

Tucked into the original carriage house of the Wentworth Mansion, the entrance to the restaurant is under a pergola shadowed by large crepe myrtle trees. At certain times of the year, the path to the restaurant might be strewn with pink blossoms. If it feels like a storybook, that's part of the Circa experience. Its white tablecloths, soft lighting, and intimate space makes this hands-down one of the most romantic restaurants in Charleston.

What’s the crowd like? 

The setting makes this one of the most popular restaurants in town when it comes to all things wedding, from proposal to rehearsal dinners and everyone in between. It's common to see bridal parties in their finest or even a photography session taking place on the grounds. Beyond that, this is a place for couples and groups who see a meal as an event—not a quick-stop.

What should we be drinking? 

While cocktails are solid (and affordably priced), it makes sense that wine, and wine pairings, are the focus here. There's a large bottle list, of course, but what is especially accommodating for those celebrating on a budget is the one, three, and five-ounce pours of esteemed wines, such as a 2018 Opus from Napa Valley, which is certainly not usually offered by-the-glass. Its presence on the wine list is a welcome one for wine enthusiasts.

Main event: the food. Give us the lowdown—especially what not to miss. 

Executive Chef Marc Collins has been at the helm of this restaurant for 20 years, and what's impressive about his focus and his work is that he continues to research the region, create new dishes, and approach the seasonal menus with passion. Dining at Circa, as it known locally, means luxurious elegance, and guests have the option to choose from both a tasting menu and an a la carte menu. We suggest going the tasting menu option, not only because you will get a lot of varied bites—from grilled cheese with caviar to lobster tail. The meal will be more balanced and yet require less decision making—a luxury in and of itself.

And how did the front-of-house folks treat you? 

The staff aims to make your evening special, so attention to detail is paramount. Since it's a small kitchen, providing any food allergies when you make the reservation is a kindness for the staff that will help ensure smooth coursing. Many of the staff are career hospitality workers who understand the nuances of a night out, so prepare to be well taken care of.

What’s the real-real on why we’re coming here? 

This is an impress-your-person meal, but if your person is a "eat to live" not "live to eat" they might find the many courses and relaxed pace to be too much. Additionally, if the restaurant is full (as it so often is) only the bar is truly comfortable for single diners.