Mahj & Nosh
at Tommy Joe's
Wednesday, Feb 25 | 2:30–5:00 PM | Tommy Joe's • Downtown Bethesda
A relaxed, daytime American Mahjong gathering with open play, a new player table,
shared appetizers, happy hour-priced drinks, and a welcoming, social atmosphere.
What to Expect
Mahj & Nosh at Tommy Joe’s is a daytime Mahjong event designed for both newer players and those who already play independently. The afternoon is structured to be relaxed, social, and welcoming, with thoughtfully arranged tables and plenty of support where needed.
New Players
A dedicated New Player table will be set aside for those who are brand new to Mahjong or still building confidence. This table includes a Mahj 101–style lesson during the event, with guided instruction and hands-on practice woven into play.
New Player seats are intentionally limited to ensure a supportive learning experience.
Experienced Players
Experienced players will enjoy open play on designer Mahjong sets in a relaxed, social daytime setting. This portion of the afternoon is self-directed, allowing players to settle into their tables and play at their own pace while enjoying food and conversation.
Some tables may be designated as beginner-friendly open play based on registrations and interest.
Food/drinks
Your ticket includes shared appetizers provided by Tommy Joe’s, designed for grazing while you play. Happy-hour pricing will be available on select drinks throughout the afternoon, with additional food and beverages available for purchase directly from the venue.
Seating
If you’re attending with friends, you’ll have the opportunity to note seating requests at checkout, and I’ll do my best to accommodate them.
Coming on your own? You’ll be seated with other players at a similar level and warmly welcomed at the table.
Tables will be thoughtfully arranged to support both new and experienced players in a relaxed, social setting.
Whether you’re newer to the game or already play independently, Mahj & Nosh at Tommy Joe’s is designed to be relaxed, welcoming, and enjoyable — with great food, a lively daytime atmosphere, and plenty of Mahjong.
Select Your Level
Experienced Player or New Player
Experienced Player Ticket
For players who can set up and play independently using the NMJL card.
Enjoy a relaxed afternoon of open play on beautiful Mahjong sets in a lively, social setting at Tommy Joe’s.
Includes:
• Open play on designer Mahjong sets
• Shared appetizers
• Happy-hour-priced drinks available for purchase
This ticket is best for players who are comfortable with the flow of the game and looking for an enjoyable, social Mahjong experience.
$30
New Player Ticket
Designed for brand-new players and those still building confidence.
This ticket includes a dedicated Mahj 101–style lesson during the event, focused on learning the fundamentals and understanding how the game works before transitioning into open play.
New Player seats are intentionally limited to ensure a supportive learning experience.
Includes:
• 2+-hour guided Mahj 101 lesson ($60 value)
• Instructional materials and loaner NMJL cards
• Shared appetizers
• Happy-hour-priced drinks available for purchase
$60
💜 Player Levels Explained
New Player (“Mahj 101”)
For those brand new to Mahjong — you’ll learn the basics, including tile names, how to read the NMJL card, and how to begin forming hands.
Experienced Player
For players who can set up, play, and call Mahj independently without guidance.
In-Between Players (“Developing Confidence”)
If you’ve played before but still appreciate occasional reminders or light support, please register as an Experienced Player and note this in your seating request at checkout.
We’ll do our best to seat you with others at a similar stage.
If you’d prefer more structured coaching before open play, you may wish to take a Mahj 102 or Mahj 201 lesson first.
Our goal is always to match you with the right table for your comfort and enjoyment.
Event Details
Date
Wednesday, February 25, 2026
Time
2:30–5:00 PM
Location
Tommy Joe’s
7940 Norfolk Ave.
Bethesda, MD 20814
Parking
The closest parking options to Tommy Joe’s on Norfolk Avenue are the Cordell–St. Elmo Garage (Garage 40) at 4835 St. Elmo Avenue, as well as on-street, metered parking along Norfolk Avenue and nearby streets.
What’s Included
Your ticket includes shared appetizers for the table, a relaxed 2.5-hour Mahjong experience, and either a Mahj 101 lesson for New Players or open play for Experienced Players, all in a welcoming, social setting.
Seating
Seating is organized in advance to create comfortable, enjoyable tables.
If you’re attending with friends, you’ll have the opportunity to note seating preferences at checkout.
Coming on your own? You’ll be thoughtfully placed with other players.
New Player seats are intentionally capped to ensure a supportive learning experience.
Policies
All ticket sales are final and non-refundable.
If you’re unable to attend, you’re welcome to transfer your ticket to a friend — just email Jennifer@MahjOverMatter.com so we can update our list.
If the event is canceled for any reason, all tickets will be fully refunded.