This isn’t your typical gaming night.
In New York City, younger crowds—Gen Z and millennials—are diving into activities once seen as old-fashioned. Think backgammon, chess, mahjong, and listening salons. These pastimes are gaining popularity as many feel overwhelmed by the digital world and crave genuine connection.
In 2026, NYC’s version of these classic games comes with a modern twist. Take Club Chess in the Lower East Side. Here, players engage in chess amid dim lights and a DJ spinning catchy tunes, creating a vibrant atmosphere that blends nightlife with strategic gameplay.
Co-founder Alexander Luke Bahta started Club Chess to revitalize social gatherings after the pandemic. “It felt like a fresh start for both nightlife and socializing,” he shared. What began as a simple chess meetup in 2023 quickly turned into a popular event series. Enthusiasts of all levels—beginners to seasoned players—come for the chess and the lively environment.
Another success is the Pawn Chess Club, launched by Münter and Simone Roberts. Their events aim to bridge social gaps in a relaxed setting. They began by inviting friends on social media, and now their gatherings attract hundreds, proving there’s a strong desire for in-person interaction amidst a busy lifestyle.
Josephine Weidner, a dedicated Pawn member, says, “The energy is infectious. People of all ages and backgrounds join in.” This diverse, welcoming atmosphere keeps everyone coming back for more.
The trend isn’t limited to chess. In Soho, the invite-only 7 Spring is a stylish backgammon club that charges $2,500 a year for membership. Brothers Noor and Yazan Haddad created it to offer a space for shared interests. “It’s a place where you can meet new people while enjoying a game you love,” member Yoni Ben-Yehuda noted.
Even mahjong is making waves among younger players. According to *Yelp*, U.S. searches for mahjong clubs shot up by 4,467% from late 2024 to 2025. TikTok is buzzing with #mahjong content, showing how this ancient game is rejuvenating connections. The Green Tile Social Club hosts pop-up events, encouraging socialization and fun. Attendance doubled in just a few months, demonstrating the growing popularity.
New initiatives, like Stylus—a members-only listening salon opening soon—showcase the push for tactile experiences that pull people away from screens. This venue emphasizes music and the joy of listening together in a world filled with noise and distraction.
Luisa Gui, managing director of Stylus, believes that people are searching for calm in the chaos of urban life. “Everyone is looking for a place to unwind and connect,” she said. The nostalgic pull of these experiences, often romanticized by younger generations, isn’t just about longing for the past; it’s also about finding more authentic ways to interact in a digital age.
As Münter wisely points out, “Technology isn’t the enemy, but there’s a growing awareness of the difference between being digitally connected and genuinely connected.” This emphasis on real-time community-building adds richness to these gatherings, as people feel like they are contributing to something special.
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Lifestyle,Metro,chess,clubs,new york city,nightlife
