Photo credit: dallas.eater.com
Mahjong is experiencing a noteworthy rise in popularity throughout the U.S., transitioning from private gatherings to public venues such as restaurants in Dallas. The game is regarded as both accessible and engaging, accommodating four players (or three with some variations) and can easily be enjoyed alongside food and drinks. For establishments with ample seating for groups, hosting mahjong games appears to be a logical choice, facilitating a friendly environment for newcomers to learn and providing seasoned players with opportunities to challenge themselves against fresh competitors. Moreover, it draws patrons during quieter periods.
Catbird, located in the National Building in Downtown Dallas, commenced its mahjong events in 2023 and has recently revived its “Monday Mahjong and Martinis” event on the first Monday of each month. For those experienced in the game, there is a $15 entry fee for participants who wish to bring their own tiles, while newcomers can acquire a $45 ticket to receive lessons from the Marvelous Mrs. Mahjong.
Originating from China, mahjong emphasizes both skill and luck, with numerous variations played worldwide. The American version, governed by the National Mahjongg League, utilizes over 100 tiles to create winning hands. Each year, participants receive a new card detailing legal hands, adding an additional layer of complexity to the game. The current surge in mahjong’s popularity is largely attributed to its inherently social aspects. A report by KERA highlighted noteworthy mahjong events at Dubs Tea N’ Eats in Plano, which successfully attract a diverse audience, including the often hard-to-reach Gen Z demographic. Additionally, CBS DFW reported that even younger children in North Texas are picking up the game as a means of alleviating stress and enhancing their strategic thinking abilities.
The game has also captured the interest of older generations, with many current venues in Dallas located in the Oak Lawn and Park Cities neighborhoods, where affluent white women constitute a significant portion of the player base. Its appeal extends to suburban areas like Plano and Richardson, where a substantial Asian American population is present. Across the nation, many young Asian Americans have embraced mahjong as a method of reconnecting with their heritage and preserving cultural traditions. Slate notes this cultural revival as a significant aspect of the game’s renaissance.
Coupes, a champagne bar in Oak Lawn, has previously hosted mahjong sessions on Mondays, offering beginner lessons provided by Jovann Walker. According to the bar’s owners, patrons are encouraged to bring their own tiles to play regardless of scheduled events.
Upcoming events include Walker’s next mahjong instructional focused on the 2025 card, set for April 23 at Perch Bistro and Bar, which also offers a weekly mahjong and martinis evening on Tuesdays in a private room, featuring $7 “tiny tinis” and an $150 entry fee for the seasonal league.
Asian Mint is fully embracing mahjong by organizing monthly gameplay and teaching sessions at varied price points, with the next event scheduled for May 12.
A brief search reveals additional mahjong-themed gatherings at establishments like Beverly’s (offering lessons by Clara Sherman of So Bam Fun). A recent visit to Le PasSage for brunch showcased a large group engaging in a private mahjong game, complete with an instructor hired specifically for their session.
This week, Bowie House in Fort Worth introduced a $50 ticketed event featuring a discussion with Kate LaGere, the controversial co-founder of Mahjong Line, which included a ranch water beverage and a mahjong gameplay session with the Mahj Girls. The venue will also provide mahjong games at its pool throughout the summer.
In February, Nikki Greek Bistro hosted a mahjong and mezze dinner with a $40 ticket that included a three-course meal and lessons. Following its success, the restaurant plans to continue the event on Tuesdays over the next month and is working on adding one-time lessons and special dinner events.
Source
dallas.eater.com