In the 1920s, Charleston’s mayor Robert Goodwyn Rhett resided at what is now the historic John Rutledge House Inn. The Mayor was expecting a visit from U.S. President William Taft during his tour of Charleston. Wanting to do something special for the President, Mayor Rhett asked his butler, to “dress up” their typical crab soup. His presidential variation featured orange crab eggs, giving the soup bright color and great taste. Thus, She Crab Soup was born and began a legacy and practical rite of passage for all Charleston foodies.

Tucked within the original carriage house of the Wentworth Mansion, Circa 1886 evokes the romance and old-world charm of historic downtown Charleston. Look beyond its original pine floors and charming architectural details and discover an unexpectedly modern take on the city’s classic Lowcountry cuisine. Circa 1886 regularly ranks among the finest restaurants in downtown Charleston SC.