The Pepper Pot

Mahjong Guided Play

$40.00

The Details

Mahjong Guided Play in Barrington, IL

Have you completed a beginner Mahjong class but still want a little extra support before joining regular games? Mahjong Guided Play at The Pepper Pot is the perfect next step.

Designed as a follow-up lesson for newer American Mahjong players, Guided Play provides hands-on experience in a supportive environment with an instructor available throughout the session. Rather than learning from a lecture, you'll build confidence by actively playing Mahjong while receiving personalized guidance and coaching.

During Guided Play, our instructor can help you navigate the rules of American Mahjong, improve your Charleston strategy, understand gameplay decisions, and develop winning play strategies. Whether you need a refresher on the National Mahjong League card or simply want more practice before attending Open Play, Guided Play offers the opportunity to learn through real game experience.

Guided Play sessions are available in one- and two-hour increments for groups of three or more players. Sessions are held on Wednesday and Thursday mornings at The Pepper Pot in Barrington, Illinois, and must be booked at least 48 hours in advance.

If you've recently completed Tile by Tile or another beginner Mahjong class, Guided Play is one of the best ways to strengthen your skills and become a more confident player.

Guided Play Details

Follow-up instruction for beginner Mahjong players
Available in 1- or 2-hour sessions
Minimum of 3 players required
Instructor-guided gameplay and coaching
Learn Charleston strategy and gameplay tactics
Practice reading the National Mahjong League card
Wednesday and Thursday morning availability
Advance booking required (48 hours minimum)
Located at The Pepper Pot in Barrington, Illinois

New to Mahjong?

If you've never played Mahjong before, we recommend starting with our Tile by Tile Beginner Mahjong Class. Tile by Tile teaches the fundamentals of American Mahjong and prepares players for Guided Play and Open Play sessions. Additionally, you can book a private beginner lesson. We recommend booking two lessons, not more than a week apart. A minimum of 3 participants is required to book private beginner lessons. Please contact mahjong@thepepperpot.co to learn more and to book.

Contact Us

Want to learn more about classes and events at The Pepper Pot? Send an email to hello@thepepperpot.co or fill out our contact form. We look forward to hearing from you.

Registration & Cancellation Policy

Please register for your preferred date and time in advance, as seating is limited.

Cancellations made at least 48 hours before the start of Guided Play are eligible for a full refund. We will offer the available seat to players on our waitlist. Refunds cannot be provided for cancellations made less than 48 hours before the event.

Location & Directions

You’ll find The Pepper Pot inside the historic Ice House Mall in Barrington, Illinois. Public parking is available throughout the property.

The nearest entrance is off Applebee Street, near Jewel-Osco. Enter through the double glass doors beneath the brick arch, then head down the steps or ramp, we’re on the left. You’ll see signage along Lake-Cook Road and inside the building to guide you.

Address:

The Pepper Pot
Historic Ice House Mall
200 Applebee Street, Suite 114
Barrington, IL 60010

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What is Mahjong Guided Play?

Mahjong Guided Play is a follow-up lesson designed for players who have already completed a beginner Mahjong class and want additional instruction while playing real games. An instructor is present to provide guidance, answer questions, and help players build confidence.

Is Guided Play a beginner Mahjong class?

No. Guided Play is intended for players who already understand the basics of American Mahjong. If you have never played Mahjong before, we recommend starting with The Pepper Pot's Tile by Tile Beginner Mahjong Class or a Mahjong 101 or Mahjong 102 series class.

What will I learn during Guided Play?

Guided Play helps players improve their understanding of:

American Mahjong rules
Charleston strategy
Hand selection
Gameplay strategy
Reading the National Mahjong League card
Calling tiles
Defensive and offensive play
Overall game flow and confidence

Who should attend Mahjong Guided Play?

Guided Play is ideal for:

Players who recently completed a beginner Mahjong class

Mahjong players who want more practice before Open Play

Players returning to Mahjong after a long break

Anyone looking to improve their Mahjong strategy and confidence

What is the difference between Guided Play and Open Play?

Guided Play includes instructor support and coaching throughout the game. Open Play is designed for players who already feel comfortable playing independently and need little to no assistance.

Can I attend Guided Play if I didn't take my beginner class at The Pepper Pot?

Yes. Players who learned American Mahjong elsewhere are welcome to attend as long as they have a basic understanding of the game.

Where can I take Mahjong lessons in Barrington, Illinois?

The Pepper Pot offers beginner Mahjong classes, Guided Play sessions, Open Play events, private Mahjong lessons, and Mahjong gatherings in Barrington, Illinois for players throughout the northwest Chicago suburbs.

What should I do after completing a beginner Mahjong class?

Guided Play is the recommended next step after a beginner Mahjong class. It allows players to practice with instructor support while building the confidence needed to participate in regular Mahjong games and Open Play events.

What should I bring to Mahjong Guided Play?

Players should bring their current National Mahjong League (NMJL) card, as Guided Play focuses on building confidence using the official card during real gameplay. All Mahjong tables, tiles, racks, and game supplies are provided by The Pepper Pot.

We recommend bringing reading glasses if you use them, along with water or your favorite beverage. Wine is available for purchase by the bottle. If you choose to bring your own wine, a $30 corkage fee applies to any bottles consumed on the premises.

Most importantly, come ready to ask questions and learn. Guided Play is designed for players who have completed a beginner Mahjong class and want additional instruction while playing. An experienced instructor is available throughout the session to help with American Mahjong rules, Charleston strategy, gameplay decisions, and overall game strategy.

Guided Play is the perfect next step before joining Mahjong Open Play and helps players from Barrington, Lake Zurich, Palatine, Arlington Heights, Inverness, and the surrounding Chicago suburbs become more confident and independent American Mahjong players.

Can I host a private event at The Pepper Pot?

Yes! The Drawing Room is one of the few venues in the Barrington area specifically designed for Mahjong and Needlepoint gatherings as well as small group private events. Whether you're hosting experienced players or introducing friends to the game, or simply need a space for your event, we can help create a memorable event of your choosing.

Have more questions?

We are here to assist. Our customer service team would love to hear from you! You can email us at mahjong@thepepperpot.co or use the contact us button below.