1
Tell us what you want
Fill out a quick interest form with your location, chess experience, preferred meeting area, and whether you want casual play, light teaching, or a gifted session.
Phase 1: Chess in Marin
Friendly in-person chess sessions in Marin.
Tablemates connects people with local chess partners for relaxed, in-person games built around conversation, connection, and play.
Public first sessions
Casual chess
Light teaching available
How it works
Tablemates is starting simple: chess first, public places first, and friendly local matching before building a full platform.
2
Get matched
We match you with a friendly local Tablemate based on availability, location, experience level, and the type of session you want.
3
Meet and play
Your first session takes place in a public location like a café, library, club, community space, or another comfortable public setting.
Choose your path
Whether you want to play, become a friendly local chess partner, or gift a session to someone else, the first step is the same interest form.
Built for real connection, not awkward networking.
Tablemates is more than finding someone who knows chess. It is about creating an easy reason to sit across the table, play, talk, and spend time together in person.
What makes a good Tablemate?
Tablemates are selected for personality and reliability, not just chess ability.
- Friendly, patient, and respectful
- Comfortable meeting new people
- Reliable with scheduling and communication
- Enjoys casual chess and conversation
- Open to light teaching if listed on their profile
- First sessions take place in public locations
Join the Marin chess pilot.
Tablemates is currently testing interest in Marin County. Fill out the form to find a Tablemate, become a Tablemate, or gift a chess session.