In an era increasingly dominated by glowing screens and curated digital connections, the human yearning for authentic, face-to-face interaction remains potent. In San Diego, a simple game of chess, sparked by a casual online query, has become the unexpected cornerstone of a vibrant community, proving that sometimes, the best connections are made over a checkered board and a shared laugh. This is the story of Beers by the Bay, a social club that has grown from a Reddit post into a beloved “third place” for hundreds in Pacific Beach.
The Unexpected Genesis: A Call for Connection
It all began with a straightforward proposition on Reddit. Aidan Ryan, seeking an opponent for an in-person chess game, cast a digital net into the vast sea of the internet. The response came from Mark Laturno, and what followed was not merely a series of chess matches but the genesis of something far grander. Their weekly meetups at local bars quickly drew curious onlookers, patrons who, perhaps feeling the same underlying desire for connection, asked to join. Soon, a fledgling duo blossomed into a burgeoning community, demonstrating the magnetic pull of shared interest and accessible camaraderie.
With the addition of Julia Gale as a co-founder, the trio solidified their vision: to create a relaxed, inclusive environment where chess was the catalyst, but friendship was the ultimate game. No tournaments, no intense pressure, just a space to unwind, play, and connect.
More Than Just Moves: The “Third Place” Phenomenon
In sociological terms, a “third place” is a public space distinct from home (first place) and work (second place), where individuals can gather, interact, and build a sense of community. Think of the classic coffee shops, pubs, or community centers. In our fast-paced, often isolated modern world, such spaces are more vital—and perhaps rarer—than ever. Beers by the Bay has masterfully filled this void in San Diego.
Having recently celebrated its one-year anniversary, the club consistently draws upwards of 70 players each week, encompassing a rich tapestry of ages, backgrounds, and skill levels. Grandmasters might casually rub elbows with complete beginners, all united by a desire for genuine interaction. While chess remains central, tables frequently spill over with other games like Connect 4, Jenga, Uno, and Yahtzee, fostering an atmosphere where competitiveness takes a backseat to sheer enjoyment and social bonding.
“People come for the chess, but they stay for the friendships,” observed co-founder Mark Laturno, succinctly capturing the club`s essence. “Every week, strangers walk in and end up laughing over a game with someone they just met. It`s simple, social, and it feels real.”
This sentiment is echoed by co-founder Aidan Ryan: “A lot of people love chess but don`t want the pressure of a tournament setting. Here, it`s about having fun. You can grab a beer, play a few games, and meet new people – that`s the whole idea.” Julia Gale adds, “We`ve built something that feels relaxed and inclusive… It`s a night where people actually talk, laugh, and connect.”
The Unplugged Appeal in a Digital Age
The club`s rapid growth—welcoming nearly 500 unique participants in its inaugural year—coincides with a national resurgence of interest in chess, fueled partly by pop culture phenomena like “The Queen`s Gambit” and popular streaming personalities. However, Beers by the Bay offers something distinct: an unequivocally unplugged experience. It`s a refreshing antidote to screen fatigue, a tangible space where digital notifications give way to audible laughter and the clack of chess pieces.
In a post-pandemic landscape, where remote work and online living have become commonplace, many members attest that the club has been instrumental in helping them forge new friendships and reconnect with their city. It’s a testament to the enduring power of shared physical space and the simple act of presence.
Beyond the Board: Community and Connection
While weekly meetups are the club`s heartbeat, Beers by the Bay has also hosted casual tournaments, welcomed visiting Grandmasters, and, perhaps most importantly, introduced dozens of first-time players to the intricacies and joys of chess. Yet, the focus steadfastly remains on fostering belonging and connection, not just on winning. It’s a place where the game serves as a bridge, leading participants to deeper social engagement.
In a world often searching for complex solutions to social isolation, Beers by the Bay offers a beautifully simple one: gather, play, and talk. From a single Reddit post, a vibrant community has emerged, proving that sometimes, the most profound connections begin with the most humble of invitations.
Join the Community:
Beers by the Bay continues its weekly meetups, offering an open invitation to anyone seeking friendly competition and genuine camaraderie.
- Where: Tavern, 1200 Garnet Ave, Pacific Beach, San Diego
- When: Thursdays, 6:30–10 PM
- Membership: Open to all skill levels.
Enthusiastic players enjoying a game at Beers by the Bay, fostering community in Pacific Beach.
Marcus Blakely