City Editor Kate, here — earlier this week, I stopped by The Magnolia Wine Bar for a game of mahjong. Shoutout to avid reader and local instructor Dorothy T. for inspiring this article and patiently explaining the rules to me.

Though Magnolia Wine Bar is no longer there, the popular parlor game is here to stay and is sweeping Fort Worth (and the country). We've got the scoop on events, classes, and clubs that will have you "going mahjong" in no time.

What's Mahjong?

The four-player game originated in Southern China in the mid-1800s and is named after a dialect term for "sparrow," which references the bird-like sound the tiles make clacking against each other.

Mahjong rose in popularity in the US in the 1920s + resulted in an American version of the game. The National Mah Jongg League formed in 1937 + issues the Official Standard Hands and Rule Cards annually.

Having some similarities with rummy, the goal of the game is to create a hand using a specialized set of tiles with designated suits and symbols.

Just ignore the fact that all of my tiles are face up — I needed some help. | Photo by FTWtoday

Learn to play

Ready to get started?

The Mahj Clubhouse hosts open play, leagues, and lessons.
- Earlier this year, the owners launched the world's first mahjong ranking app, giving competitors a platform. American Mahjong Ranking Authority lets users connect with ranked players, clubs, instructors, and facilities.
Join the DFW Mahjong Facebook Group to find instructors or classes + connect with other players.
Adults ages 55+ can sign up for a course through the TCC Senior Education Program.
The Fort Worth Women's Club hosts classes and tournaments for members.
Sign up for $65 lessons, then move up to guided play with North Richland Hills' Wildflower Mahjong. Feeling confident? Register for five upcoming August events, including a night at Southlake's Rise Souffle.
Colleyville's new Art Algebra combines coffee + art, and also hosts summer mahjong nights.

Play with friends

Already a pro? While many local games are word of mouth — like at Luby’s on Mondays at 11:30 a.m. and Fridays at 12:30 p.m. — some local businesses host mahjong nights that are open to the public. Check out:

Lessons + open Play | Mondays, 7-9 p.m. | Billet Room at Bowie House | $65 for a lesson, $25 for skilled open play, includes a signature cocktail

Look forward to...

Another home to Fort Worth mahjong will open on Monday, Aug. 31 at The Bamboo Room on Camp Bowie. It'll include a game parlor and retail shop stocked with boutique tile sets, clothing, and accessories.