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Mahjong lessons in New York City

New York has a full mahjong studio in Midtown, classes on the Upper East and Upper West Sides, and mobile teachers who bring everything to your apartment. It is also one of the few cities where you can learn American, Chinese and Japanese riichi under one roof.

By Jerry Chen. Checked and updated November 1, 2026

Brand new? 5 places here run beginner classes or first lessons.

Already know the basics? 4 offer open play, leagues or a regular club night.

Places to learn and play

  • Sparrow's Nest Studio

    Studio, Midtown Manhattan (W 35th St)

    Offers
    Beginner lessons, Open play Thursday to Sunday, Table reservations, Tournaments, Memberships
    Style
    American, Chinese, Japanese riichi
    Price
    American beginner lesson $60; fundamentals lesson $40; table reservation $20
    How to book
    Online

  • Manhattan Mandarin

    Language school with mahjong classes, Upper East Side (E 70th St)

    Offers
    4-class beginner series, Supervised play, Private group classes (4+ people)
    Style
    American
    Price
    Class prices not listed; large card $15 (optional)
    How to book
    Online booking page

  • Congregation Habonim

    Synagogue program, Upper West Side (West End Ave)

    Offers
    4-session beginner class, Open play Tuesday evenings and Thursday afternoons
    Style
    American
    Price
    Open play free for members; $10 day / $15 evening for non-members (cash)
    How to book
    Interest form for classes; sign-up sheet for open play

  • OK Let's Mahjong

    Mobile teacher, Comes to you anywhere in NYC

    Offers
    First-time private lessons, Follow-up lessons, League nights, Corporate events
    Style
    American
    Price
    First lesson $85 per person (4 players) or $70 (8 players)
    How to book
    Online scheduler

  • So Bam Fun

    Teachers and public events, New York City

    Offers
    Beginner lessons, Guided open play, Open play, Private lessons, Corporate events
    Style
    American
    Price
    Private group lessons from $400 for 2 hours; public classes and open play priced per event
    How to book
    Online tickets; inquiry form

We checked each listing against its own website on November 1, 2026. Schedules and prices change; confirm before you go. Run a group here or spotted a mistake? Tell us.

Common questions

Where can I learn mahjong in New York City?

We have checked 5 places in New York City: Sparrow's Nest Studio, Manhattan Mandarin, Congregation Habonim, OK Let's Mahjong and So Bam Fun. 5 of them explicitly advertise beginner classes; others offer lessons on request.

How much do mahjong lessons cost in New York City?

Published prices include: Sparrow's Nest Studio, American beginner lesson $60; fundamentals lesson $40; table reservation $20; Congregation Habonim, Open play free for members; $10 day / $15 evening for non-members (cash); OK Let's Mahjong, First lesson $85 per person (4 players) or $70 (8 players); So Bam Fun, Private group lessons from $400 for 2 hours; public classes and open play priced per event. Others do not list prices publicly.

Is there open play in New York City?

Yes. Sparrow's Nest Studio, Congregation Habonim, OK Let's Mahjong and So Bam Fun offer open play, leagues or a regular club night.

Can I get a private mahjong lesson in New York City?

Yes. Manhattan Mandarin, OK Let's Mahjong and So Bam Fun offer private or in-home lessons, usually for a group of friends.

Do I need to bring my own set or card?

Most beginner classes provide sets. Many ask you to bring or buy the current National Mah Jongg League card, so check before you go.

Where can I learn American mahjong in New York City?

All 5 places we list say they teach or play American mahjong.

Before your first class