March was a month of firsts: our first sit-down dinner concept at Sushi Club in Miami, our first events in Los Angeles and São Paulo, a Paris launch at Experimental Marais, and Philadelphia’s first tournament night.
We are looking forward to April thanks to partners who insist on spoiling you all: Maison Alexandria and Alsta Watches. They understand that the details shape the experience.
April Events (click to register)
San Francisco
4.1 - RIVIAN
4.15 Faight Collective
4.26 Flores
Los Angeles
Philadelphia
4.25 Ebru
Miami
4.9 Mr. C
4.18 Shelborne at The Bar
4.30 - Cho
London
4.14 Art’otel
4.21 Tournament Night x Isaya at Tramp (link dropping soon)
NYC
4.9 Beefbar
Paris & São Paulo (dates dropping soon!)
From the Host’s Chair
Each Backgammon Social has its own atmosphere, shaped by the people who host it. We asked a few of them a handful of questions…
It usually starts with how people learned this beautiful game…
Who taught you to play backgammon?
“I embarrassed myself playing against my friend’s very Italian, very intense uncle… I was determined after that to get good.” — Maddy, San Francisco
“An ex-boyfriend’s father who loved the game. He explained that if we were going to travel together, it was essential I knew this game. He was correct.” — Eugenia, Co-Founder
“Pappou (grandfather).” — Flo, Philly
A mix of family, romance, and just enough humiliation to make it stick.
Then comes the setting…
Best place in the world for a backgammon game?
“My most memorable game was probably in Big Sur, overlooking the cliffs and the water.” — Maddy, San Francisco
“A cozy English cottage with the fireplace crackling away in the background.” — Eugenia, Co-Founder
“On the beach in Cyprus.” — Flo, Philly
Before the first move, though, there’s always a drink of choice…
Favorite drink/food to have during a match?
“A glass of red wine or champagne.” — Maddy, San Francisco
“A spicy cocktail, keeps me sharp on the game!” — Paloma, Paris
“Greek freddo espresso.” — Gina, Co-Founder
And then, the question everyone thinks they know the answer to…
Strategy or psychology: which matters more?
“Psychology — the right attitude will bring the right strategy.” — Paloma, Paris
“I think these two are not separate from each other. Psychology is part of my strategic approach.” — Eugenia, Co-Founder
“Luck :)” — Gina, Co-Founder
Play the board. Play the person. Or blame the dice.
What actually keeps people at the table, though, is simpler
What makes a perfect backgammon night?
“Good company and a healthy dose of banter.” — Maddy, San Francisco
“Good friends, low lights, and good music (so any Backgammon Social events 😉).” — Paloma, Paris
“All of you; sharing stories, cultures, and connection, all brought together by the game.” — Flo, Philly
The game is the excuse. Sharing is the point.
And finally, the only question that really matters…
Wildcard question: Have you ever intentionally lost a game?
“Yes, every game I’ve lost was intentional. And no, I’m not competitive at all!” — Maddy, San Francisco
“Have I ever lost a game? I frankly don’t remember it ever happening 😁 ” — Eugenia, Co-Founder
“I never lose !!” — Gina, Co-Founder
Different cities, different styles, but one consistent theme: no one at Backgammon Social seems particularly familiar with intentionally losing. Yeah, right… gotta see it to believe it.
Overheard at BGS
The board never stops talking.
From unexpected first-date moves to chance encounters that turn into new cities on the map, these are the moments that remind us why this section exists. Here’s what else we overheard…
“I hadn’t seen a backgammon board in 25 years” said the owner of the restaurant walking over to a table.
Two guests were mid-game. They looked up and told her they played at Backgammon Social events in Philly, and that this was exactly the kind of place it would work.
New cities, new boards, new partnerships, and a growing number of people confidently claiming they “never lose” while absolutely losing. From London to Miami, the dice kept things humble.
— The Backgammon Social Team
