While John Rutledge House Inn® does not have an onsite restaurant, guests are warmly welcomed to enjoy cocktails or dinner at our sister property, Circa 1886, on the grounds of Wentworth Mansion®. Tucked inside the mansion’s original carriage house, Circa 1886 is widely regarded as one of Charleston’s top dining destinations and is also home to an intimate bar known for its seasonal craft cocktails and thoughtfully curated wine selections. The romantic setting is ideal for a special evening out, while the relaxed bar atmosphere offers the perfect spot for a pre-dinner aperitif or nightcap during your stay. For more than twenty years, Executive Chef Marc Collins has delighted diners with imaginative menus that blend classic flavors with modern flair, turning every meal into a memorable Charleston experience.
Seasonal Flavors, Fresh Ingredients
Savor the culinary vision of Executive Chef Marc Collins, where timeless techniques meet modern inspiration in the heart of historic Charleston. Guests may choose between two distinctive tasting menus—each designed to celebrate seasonal flavors, inventive pairings, and artful presentation—or explore a refined selection of à la carte offerings. Whether indulging in a curated multi-course journey or selecting dishes to suit your own tastes, every plate reflects the creativity and passion that make dining at Wentworth Mansion an unforgettable experience.
Restaurant & Bar Hours: Monday, Tuesday, & Thursday-Saturday | 5:00-9:00 pm
Charleston's Most Intimate Bar
Visitors to downtown Charleston are invited to relax at the intimate bar inside Circa 1886 Restaurant, located within the original carriage house on the grounds of Wentworth Mansion®. Rich historic details—from original wood floors to the stone fireplace—create an inviting atmosphere that feels elegant and unhurried. The bar program highlights rotating seasonal cocktails, a robust wine list, and attentive service, making it a natural choice for a pre-dinner drink, a post-dinner nightcap, or a relaxed pause while exploring the city’s historic district.
Private Events
Circa 1886 provides a timeless setting for gatherings both large and small. Whether you’re marking a special anniversary, hosting colleagues, or enjoying time with family, our historic carriage house and intimate dining spaces set the stage beautifully. Work alongside our culinary team to create a custom menu, or choose from curated banquet selections designed to impress. With thoughtful service and attention to detail, every occasion at Circa 1886 becomes an experience to treasure.
Marc Collins
For more than twenty years, Executive Chef Marc Collins has guided the kitchen at Circa 1886, where his vision and leadership have helped shape Charleston’s culinary reputation. A co-founder of the Charleston Wine + Food Festival, Chef Collins is recognized both locally and nationally for his dedication to thoughtful, innovative cuisine.
Together with the talented Circa 1886 culinary team, he crafts menus that honor tradition while embracing fresh ideas. From carefully composed tasting menus to refined à la carte offerings, every dish reflects a balance of creativity, technique, and seasonality—ensuring a dining experience that lingers long after the last bite.
Dining Guide to Charleston
Charleston is a feast for the senses and a destination where every bite tells a story. Known worldwide for its culinary scene, the Holy City blends fresh coastal seafood, time-honored Southern traditions, inventive fine dining, and thriving breweries. To help you make the most of it, we’ve gathered our top dining picks—Circa 1886 among them—so you can savor the very best flavors during your stay.
