Circa 81 Tapas & Cocktaileria

Circa 81 Tapas & Cocktaileria reviews from people who’ve dined at this restaurant. Based on recent rating.

Review summary

1. B

   Bill VIP

   East Tennessee18 reviews

   5.0

   Dined 3 days ago

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 4
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   Everything was great. In an area where most restaurants are pushing the price level, Circa 81 remains reasonable value for money. Wide range of menu items.
   

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2. A

   Andrew Dash

   Unspecified1 review

   2.0

   Dined 6 days ago

   1. Overall 2
   2. Food 1
   3. Service 3
   4. Ambience 3

   Unfortunately, my experience at Circa 81 Tapas & Cocktaileria left much to be desired. The standout of the evening was our waitress, who was both knowledgeable and friendly—by far the highlight of the visit. However, the overall experience was disappointing. Despite several open tables upon arrival and same tables open upon departure, my party was forced to sit in a very awkward and uncomfortable part of the restaurant, with staff insisting there were no other options available. The atmosphere was uncomfortably cold, with several patrons visibly affected by the temperature. Service throughout the evening was inconsistent, with long intervals between the arrival of tapas and entrees, minimal engagement from staff. The food itself was underwhelming, lacking the flavor and execution expected from a tapas-focused restaurant. The mixed drinks were particularly poor, with the pomegranate mojito tasting unpleasantly medicinal—more like Robitussin than a refreshing cocktail. If you're seeking great food and well-rounded customer service, I would recommend looking elsewhere.
   

   Circa 81 Tapas & CocktaileriaResponded 3 days ago

   Hi Andrew, so sorry that you did not enjoy your time with us. To address your seating concerns, it looks like you booked a reservation online with OpenTable just a few minutes before coming in which can be tricky for us because at the same time call-in reservations, as well as walk-ins, which the OT system cannot account for and, in this case, that left very few tables available for your reservation time and other upcoming reservations. It was a very busy night for our team and the kitchen, being a holiday weekend, so I apologize if that impacted any of the timing/dishes. We would be happy to refund you for the drink or food items you did not care for - we always strive to provide great food and service and would be happy to address your concerns directly! Thank you for your time!
   

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3. M

   Mark

   Wilmington29 reviews

   5.0

   Dined 6 days ago

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   Circa 81 was another fantastic dining experience! From the warm welcome by Peter at the door to our amazing service team, we had a wonderful time. Becca B was a culinary expert, recommending the best dishes and special chef offerings. She made sure our meal was a delightful journey, starting with appetizers, followed by a refreshing salad, and ending with mouthwatering main courses. The kitchen team truly outdid themselves, with every dish bursting with flavor and beautifully presented. The birthday dessert surprise was a real treat, my mom was over the moon! Thank you again for another memorable dining experience, it was so delicious!
   

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4. B

   Brad

   Wilmington3 reviews

   5.0

   Dined on May 23, 2025

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   Great food and service. This place never disappoints.
   

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5. W

   Wally

   Raleigh1 review

   5.0

   Dined on May 22, 2025

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   The food is amazing. Couldn’t get enough. We ate tapas small plate and each offering was excellent. Service was the best and helpful with selections. Will go back ALOT!!!!
   

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6. I

   Ilene

   New York City18 reviews

   5.0

   Dined on May 22, 2025

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   Excellent. Enjoyable meal and atmosphere. Amiable staff.
   

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7. L

   Lynn

   Wilmington14 reviews

   5.0

   Dined on May 16, 2025

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   Great food, great service. One of our favorite restaurants in Morehead City.
   

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8. J

   Julie

   Greensboro1 review

   5.0

   Dined on May 15, 2025

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   This is a new favorite dinner spot for us! We have dined here several times and it never disappoints! The food is consistently delicious and the quality of service is bar none!
   

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9. J

   John VIP

   Raleigh8 reviews

   5.0

   Dined on May 8, 2025

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 4

   We have enjoyed Circa 81 for years. They have wonderful small plates that are perfect for sharing and great cocktails. They have one of the largest selections of tapas we’ve seen. We love the She-crab soup!! My wife followed that up with mussels that have a neat lime flavor. I had the Seared Sesame-tuna, really delicious, and the stuffed mushrooms which were Great. We did ask to change tables due to the cool air blowing from a vent, but they accommodated us with ease, moving us to another table. Our server was great, very friendly and helpful. We will definitely go back when we are back at the coast.
   

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10. N

    Niki VIP

    Wilmington13 reviews

    5.0

    Dined on May 4, 2025

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5

    Brunch at Circa can not be celebrated enough! Circa Benedict and Circa French Toast were on the menu today. Both were absolutely stellar. Paul is one of our favorite servers, even though they are all amazing. I can tell when Jamie is behind the bar, because she makes the best drinks. Tracy, Pete, and the whole staff make us feel like we are visiting old friends. Don't miss out on this restaurant! You won't find better food or better people anywhere!
    

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