On a drizzly Saturday afternoon in Downtown Brooklyn, hundreds of mahjong enthusiasts gathered at the Korean food hall Hana House to celebrate the second birthday of the Green Tile Social Club. This New York-based mahjong community, founded by four Asian American alumni from the University of Texas at Austin, has been hosting monthly games and events to connect people back to their culture.
As attendees entered the venue, they were greeted by upbeat electronic music from a live DJ and the sight of two dozen tables set up for gameplay. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, with both regulars and newcomers coming together to enjoy the 19th-century Chinese game of strategy and luck.
For many young Asian Americans, mahjong is a game they grew up watching older generations play, but now, thanks to communities like Green Tile Social Club, they are actively participating and embracing the game. Similar clubs and events are popping up across the country, from Oakland to Dallas, as a new generation of fans discovers the joy of playing mahjong.
Guests at the event shared their love for the game and the sense of community it brings. From tech project managers to cookbook authors, everyone had a unique story of how mahjong has impacted their lives. Whether it’s connecting with their roots, bonding with family members, or finding healing after a breakup, mahjong has become more than just a game—it’s a way to build relationships and create lasting memories.
As the Green Tile Social Club continues to grow and spread its mission of cultural connection, it’s clear that mahjong is more than just a game—it’s a bridge that brings people together and keeps traditions alive in a modern world.
