Andover’s Hidden Parlor Taps Into Mahjong’s Modern Revival

The game, which first captured American attention in the 1920s, is seeing a dramatic cultural second act. Data from the Yelp 2026 Trend Forecast highlights an 819% spike in demand for lessons, signaling that the current interest is driven by newcomers rather than just long-time enthusiasts. In the Boston area alone, organized events saw a 420% increase between 2024 and 2025.

At The Hidden Parlor, the membership reflects this generational crossover. More than 70 individuals from Massachusetts and Southern New Hampshire, ranging from working parents to retirees, have joined the society. By offering a venue where players do not need to coordinate their own tables, the club has removed the primary barrier to entry for the game. During the opening week, six tables were active for the Tuesday Evening League, with plans already in motion to expand the facility's social programming to include bridge and book clubs.