Toronto just got a new club for drinking and playing chess

You can now hone your chess-playing skills while enjoying a few drinks, and the best part is that no experience is necessary.

Knightcap Chess Club has been reinventing the chess game in a totally new way in Toronto, hosting events where participants are invited to knock a few back while playing and learning the fascinating game of chess.

Events started taking place near the end of last year, first held at Annex Hotel. Admission was totally free, with people drinking beers and wine over a game of chess in the chill space. They make a point of encouraging beginners to attend and document it all with disposable camera photos.

It makes sense that the events have such a refined sense of style, considering the club was founded by a former manager at one of Toronto’s most elegant Italian restaurants, Giulietta.

“My goal was to curate events in Toronto’s most stylish venues, primarily restaurants, bars, and hotel lobbies. These locations offer the perfect ambiance with dim lighting and vibrant music,” says Harrison. “The idea originated from my love for chess and the urge to foster a vibrant social community.”

They even hosted an afterparty for the finals of the Champions Chess Tour, something a little different from the average night at a sports bar watching the game. You may not have heard of Fabiano Caruana, but the Chess Grandmaster and U.S. Chess Champion actually attended the event.

In addition to Annex Hotel, they’ve now partnered up with new development The Well for Cafe Chess, as well as with Bar St. Lo for what they’re calling Apres Chess Club.

What ties the events together is that the vibes are always high, players of all levels are always welcome, and the recap photos are on point. While the other events typically take place during the evening, Cafe Chess events usually happen during the day.

They’ve recently had to make a note on one of their social media posts due to their popularity: “While these games are untimed and without clocks, we kindly ask players to keep their matches brisk and be mindful of others waiting. Please try to avoid prolonged games. Let’s ensure everyone has a fair chance to engage and enjoy!”

The events are consistently full with an extended waitlist, so if you’re curious about this new chess club, you’ll want to make sure to RSVP quickly using the link in their Instagram bio. Capacity is usually around 50 to 75 people.

Starting in June, Cafe Chess events will be going on at The Well once a month. They’re also planning on bringing chess events to the Eaton Centre and Sherway Gardens.