This article was update on June 23, 2026.
The traditional Chinese game of mahjong is having a resurgence across the country, and the DC-area is getting in on the game play.
Sallie Routh, co-founder of mahjong teaching group DC Mahj Collective, says that the social aspect of the game is a major draw. “I think as we’re coming out of Covid, people are particularly craving that connection and rebuilding their life in a more purposeful way with community,” she says. “It’s a meaningful way to spend your time with people that you love. It’s a great paced game for that—you can catch up over a game of mahjong.”
The tile-based game started in China in the 1800s and has since sprouted into a global pastime with more than 40 variations. Mahjong made its way to the US in the 1920s, and the National Mah Jongg League (NMJL) was established in 1937. A unique aspect of American mahjong is that NMJL releases an annual, standardized card that lists different winning combinations for the game each year.
Whether you’re a mahjong novice looking to learn or a tile-turning enthusiast seeking a game, here’s where to play.
DC Public Libraries
Locations: Martin Luther King Jr Memorial Library, Cleveland Park Library
When: Mondays (for experienced players only) and Tuesdays (beginners welcome) at 6 PM at MLK Library, Tuesdays at 11 AM at Cleveland Park Library
Price: Free
Try your hand at American or Hong Kong-style mahjong at weekly events hosted by two DC public libraries. Sessions are open to players of all skill and experience levels, and instructors can help beginner tables maneuver the game. The Cleveland Park sessions and Tuesday sessions at MLK require advance registration, but Monday nights at MLK are first-come, first-served. See details for each session here.
Lucky Danger
Location: 709 D St. NW
When: Lessons on Wednesdays at 5 PM or free play by reservation
Price: $45 per table for an hour
Chinese-American restaurant Lucky Danger opened in May of 2025, unveiling a back room with three automatically-shuffling mahjong tables (programmed for Chinese mahjong). The restaurant offers weekly classes, which sell out quickly. If you already know how to play, table reservations are available by the hour. Book a class or reserve a table here.
Lillian and Albert Small Capital Jewish Museum
Location: 575 3rd St. NW
When: Lessons for beginners, Sundays 10:30 AM-12:30 PM; open play Sundays at 1 PM
Price: $5 requested donation for open play, $10 for lessons
Jewish women founded the National Mah Jongg League and developed the standardized American version. Celebrate their contributions to the game with American mahjong lessons and open play at the Capital Jewish Museum. Secure a spot here.
DC Mahj Collective
Location: Player’s choice
When: Varies by reservation
Cost: $85 a person for two hours
If you prefer a private lesson, check out Routh’s group, DC Mahj Collective. Choose a location and the instructors will bring mahjong sets for a small group. The collective will also be organizing mahjong socials resuming in the fall. Book a lesson here.
Neutral Ground
Location: 6641 Old Dominion Dr., McLean
When: Tuesdays, 4-6 PM
Cost: $20 minimum purchase per person
Enjoy player-only cocktails like the Bam Bird or Sesame Mai Tai during Mahjong “Tile-Tail” Tuesdays at this restaurant in McLean. Available for tables of four, BYOT and board. Advanced reservations required.
Whyte House Monograms
Location: 5447 Wisconsin Ave., Chevy Chase
When: Varies by reservation/event
Cost: $75 a person for private lessons
Whyte House Monograms, a boutique specializing in monogramming and embroidering, is hosting Mahjong & Monograms nights in partnership with Mix Mingle Mahj. Browse their collection of handbags, glassware, bedding, and other gifts before sitting down for open play or a private lesson (available across three different levels). Find more information here.
