Chef Marc Collins
January 2025

We hope everyone enjoyed the holidays and spent cherished moments with family and friends. As we start the new year, we’re excited to bring you fresh flavors, memorable dining experiences, and exciting updates from Circa 1886. Whether you’re planning your next visit or reflecting on past meals with us, we look forward to celebrating the year ahead together. Here’s what’s on The Dish this month!

happy anniversary to us!
CELEBRATING 25 YEARS
Circa 1886 Dining Room
Circa Food
Circa Food
Chef Marc Collins
Circa 1886 Dining Room

On Tuesday, January 21st, Circa 1886 will proudly celebrate its 25th anniversary. To mark this extraordinary milestone, Executive Chef Marc Collins has designed a special four-course menu featuring some of the most beloved dishes from the past 25 years. Each course is a tribute to the creativity, flavors, and passion that have defined Circa 1886 as a cornerstone of Charleston’s culinary scene.

“This anniversary dinner is a celebration of the journey we've shared with our guests over the last 25 years,” said Chef Marc Collins. “We’ve crafted a menu that reflects the spirit of Circa 1886, blending cherished classics with the creativity and passion that inspire us every day.”Since opening in January 2000, Circa 1886 has strived to be a premier dining destination for both locals and visitors. 

Our mission has always been to provide an unforgettable experience that reflects Charleston’s rich culinary traditions. Over the years, we have become known for our refined ambiance, commitment to culinary excellence, and warm hospitality."The vision for Circa 1886 was to create a truly unique dining experience that showcased the best of Charleston’s culinary heritage," said Rick Widman, Founder of Circa 1886. "We wanted to offer guests something memorable—an immersive experience that transcends just a meal."Everyone at Circa 1886 is deeply grateful for 25 wonderful years and looks forward to creating many more cherished memories with you. 

 If you would like to join the waitlist for the 25th Anniversary Dinner, please call 843-853-7828. Thank you for being part of our journey!
Read The History of Circa 1886

Chef Collin's 23-year journey
AT CIRCA 1886
Chef Marc Collins

Q. How has the restaurant’s menu evolved over the years?


A. The restaurant’s concept has evolved significantly over the 23 years I’ve been the chef. At its core, it’s always been about providing a memorable experience and, as I like to say, ‘pushing you to the edge but not over’ when it comes to our creative vision for the menu. Over the years, we’ve transitioned from strictly Southern cuisine to lighter, spa-inspired fare, to exploring the history of food in our state, and finally to simply creating dishes that inspire us. It’s been an exciting and rewarding journey. Click here for the full interview!

stars of the hospitality industry
SOUTH CAROLINA RESTAURANT & LODING ASSOCIATION
ashely cardona

We are thrilled to announce that our executive pastry chef, Ashley Cardona, has been nominated for Outstanding Chef of the Year by the South Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association.


The Stars of Industry Awards honor the best and the brightest in the hospitality industry. These individuals go above and beyond to contribute to the positive image of the hospitality industry while also being confronted with supply and labor shortages.


Ashley will be attending the award ceremony in Greenville on February 17th and find out if she is the winner. Regardless, Ashley is truly a star of the industry!

notable charlestonians
MICHELLE WOODHULL
michelle woodhull

In the latest edition of Charleston Magazine, our president, Michelle Woodhull, is featured in their "Notable Charlestonians" article!From exploring historic streets as a child to leading Charming Inns®, Michelle's passion for Charleston and hospitality shines. Click here to read her story and discover how she continues to make an impact on our vibrant community. 

charleston wine + food festival
MARCH 5-9, 2025
charleston wine + food festival

The Culinary Village is returning to the Peninsula in 2025 and the festival promises to be and extraordinary year, and we are filled with excitement to once again be part of this vibrant celebration of Charleston’s culinary and hospitality scene. This year’s programming will be a tribute to Charleston’s rich culture and exceptional local talent, featuring celebrated chefs, artisans, and entrepreneurs who bring our city’s unique flavors to life.

Stay tuned for updates on new events, venues, and the full schedule, and join us as we celebrate the spirit of Charleston in every bite, sip, and story. For more information, visit chswf.com.

WANT TO STAY DOWNTOWN FOR THE FESTIVAL?
VIEW OUR SISTER HOTELS

flavors unveiled
GRILLED CHEESE
grilled cheese

 We thought it would be fun to unveil the flavor of the Grilled Cheese—returning for our special anniversary—thanks to many votes from our loyal guests. This isn’t your typical grilled cheese: our Southern Grilled Cheese is a decadent blend of Pimento Cheese Mousse, perfectly toasted Grilled Brioche, delicate slices of Prosciutto, and the luxurious touch of Paddlefish Caviar, all finished with a sprinkle of Cured Yolk Powder. It’s a true reflection of the creativity and craftsmanship that has defined Circa 1886 for the past 25 years.

win a 2-night stay

Voting is under way for the 2025 Travel & Leisure World’s Best Awards, and we would love to have your support for our sisters, Wentworth Mansion® and John Rutledge House Inn®. To thank you for voting, you will be entered to win a two-night stay!
apply here
Be sure to follow us on social media!

RESERVE A TABLE

Call 843-853-7828 for more information.
Circa 1886
149 Wentworth Street | Charleston, SC 29401
Logos: Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Andrew Harper, Historic Hotels of America