Pawn Chess Club is a New York City–based pop-up chess club bringing people together around the game in a social, low-pressure environment. The club welcomes both new and experienced players and treats chess as a point of connection, conversation, and shared experience.
Founded in 2023 by Simone Robert and Isabel Münter, Pawn Chess Club works across culture, play, and community. Its events host 150–250 guests across New York City and are produced in collaboration with brands, cultural institutions, and independent venues.
Pawn Chess Club prioritizes connection over competition, creating spaces that are open, welcoming, and culturally engaged.
Website, Instagram.
Deck available upon request.
Brand partners include: New Inc, Trippin, Hinge.
Venues include: The Met, McNally Jackson, Happier Grocery, Public Records, Tiwa Gallery, Metrograph, Casino, among others.
Press include: The New York Times, The Guardian, Thrillist.
Pawn at the Metropolitan Museum on January 9 2026
Photos by Max Kütz