Fork & Cork: Circa 1800- Experience It

Classic restaurants can be found anywhere in America and here in 'the Ville' there is one restaurant in a class of its' own. Circa 1800, located in historic downtown on Person Street.

Owner Kirk deViere's travels and fine dining experiences lend to his expertise in the industry. As a result, he tends to the menu selection himself.

Circa 1800 meets three key requirements for me: ambiance, presentation and palate.
 
Crisp white tablecloths and fine wine go hand in hand. Add in some flowers, beautiful decor, succulent food choices and you've set the stage for a remarkable evening.
 
My culinary experience began with their recommendation of 'Calamari Jenny Style'.

I have never met a calamari I didn't like, and I cannot rave enough about this appetizer selection.

The calamari was perfectly done in a light panko breading, served slightly crisp, so as to not have to tear at it. Its slight firm texture yet, extremely tender inside equaled perfection laid atop of the tantalizing sauce creating an infusion of flavors.

First taste, sweet - then like a bolt of lightning, spicy! A hint of fresh ginger lingered on my palate, I recognized the flavor instantly. Quite an outstanding dish.
 
Let's see what else Circa 1800's vast menu had to offer.

'Mediterranean Shrimp Salad' looked divine. Perhaps indulge in their 'Seafood Fra Diablo' with scallops, shrimp and lump crab served in a spicy white wine tomato basil broth, over a bed of angel hair pasta.

It all sounded fantastic and having heard they serve up classic dishes for entree's, such as their most requested 'Filet Tips' and exquisite 'Blackened Salmon', I opted for the salmon.

I'm quite particular on my salmon, having lived in San Francisco for 12 years. This, was by far, some of the best I've ever had with its' symphony of flavors.

Seared and blackened on one side, it held all the succulent juices within. It was topped with 'pico de gallo and avocado ranch' which made for an extreme burst of color on your plate. Wonderful presentation. 

I expected it to perhaps be hot and spicy because of the blackening, but it was surprisingly not. As I tried it, I was so satisfied, I smiled with culinary delight.
 
The salmon was paired with a spiced up 'Fiesta Rice'. Here, I had found the heat from the rice complimented the salmon perfectly.

Served alongside was fresh, tender asparagus, no matter the season, it was cooked al dente.

My choice of wine was simple, so as to counter play the burst of flavors. A warm smooth red paired well.
 
My date had the Filet Tips he was craving and yes, I did try them, delicious. He's a meat and potatoes man, so he forwent the rice it normally is served with and requested the smooth and creamy potatoes.
 
The portions were ample, the ambiance, presentation and palate were in perfect harmony. A symphony of flavor abounds and awaits at Circa.

While you are there, perhaps enjoy over looking the Market House on their patio outside as shoppers and dog walkers stroll by.

Friends can gather in this serene, historic setting - complete with over-sized painted art canvasses for sale as a tribute to downtown while enjoying a cocktails with friends.

Circa aims to please your palate. 'Experience it'.
Cheers!