Chicago mahjong clubs
- Missy Mahjong
- Apr 24
- 3 min read
Mahjong clubs are the best places to play the game in Chicago. I brought mahjong social clubs to the Windy City in 2024. We met at hotels, private venues, boutiques and restaurants throughout the city to build community and philanthropy. Now, there are thr
ee brick and mortar mahjong clubs in the Chicago area.
Although a game at home is nice, mahjong clubs in Chicago give players the ability to choose a date and time that is convenient to play. For a fee, the mahjong club coordinates finding other players, provides all the materials and offers lessons.
The benefit of a mahjong club for a player is flexibility. Players do no need to try to coordinate schedules with other players- the club does that for you.
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Lilypad Mahjong Parlor
Lilypad was the first Mahjong parlor in the Windy City. Conveniently located steps from Wrigley Field, I was able to take the red line to check it out.
This space is colorful and beautifully designed. The space is cheerful and playful. The lighting is bright, so there is no need for additional table lamps or unnecessary accessories. The tables are generously sized.
Lilipad Mahjong Parlor offers classes, lessons, leagues and open play. Book here.
Pepper Pot in Barrington
Admittedly, I have not seen this space in person. I sent my secret shopper (aka my mom) to scope out the needlepoint canvases and mahjong tables.
Pepper Pot sounds like my personal heaven…. Needlepoint and mahjong in one dreamy space! The rumors and the photos align- the Pepper Pot is an impressive space highlighting the vintage design of the original building.
Pepper Pot will be offering mahjong programming including open play and mahjong lessons this spring 2026.
Northshore Mahjong Lounge
My friend and fellow mahjong instructor, Sam Meza, is behind this space. Designed to offer lessons, play, league and more, I am excited to see this space come to life.
Sam is creative and a great instructor. She is behind my favorite teaching method for the deal (breakfast lunch, dinner and dessert!). This space promises to be as creative as she is.
The Northshore Mahjong Lounge is opening this summer.
Chicago Private Mahjong Clubs:
What is the one thing I miss about my life these days? East Bank Club.
During the summer, women play mahjong under the canopy area on the sun deck. The tables are the perfect size to play the game. If there was a place to work out your body and mind, East Bank Club is it.
Oh… and EBC also offers spa treatments, great food and daycare. Sigh. I miss this magical space!
Country Clubs are part of the history of the Chicago area. Many private country clubs now offer mahjong programming. Be sure to ask at your club. They most likely offer lessons and open play as part of your membership.
The Women's Athletic Club (WAC) offers lessons and open play. Located downtown off Michigan Avenue, this is worth joining for so many reasons beyond mahjong.
To learn more about the Chicago area mahjong clubs and events, stay tuned to the Missy Mahjong NEWSletter. You never know when I’ll pop into one of these clubs to give my tile reviews, host a fundraiser or pop in for play!
