In less than a year, Mahj on the Beach has quickly built a following across South Florida, turning a classic tabletop game into a social staple. Founded by Kari Long after she relocated to Fort Lauderdale in 2025, the concept began as a way to find connection in a new city.
It didn’t take long to grow. Today, Mahj on the Beach hosts classes and events at restaurants, bakeries, country clubs, law firms and private homes, drawing a mix of locals and newcomers alike.
“It’s been a beautiful introduction to Florida,” Long says. “People come alone and leave with friends. You don’t find that online. You find that at The Table.”
American Mahjong, first popularized in the 1920s, blends strategy with social interaction. Classes start with the basics (rules, structure and gameplay) before settling into the familiar rhythm of tiles clicking and conversations building around the table.
The appeal extends beyond the game itself. Players return for the experience: a chance to learn something new, meet people and step away from the usual routine. Whether it’s a weekday afternoon class or a private gathering, the format stays simple: two to four players, one table and just enough competition to keep things interesting.
“I want the history of the game and the joy of it to be preserved,” Long says.
In a region where many are new or constantly on the move, Mahj on the Beach offers something increasingly rare: a reason to slow down, sit together and connec
