About our club
GM Susan Polgar visit
Our story
The Westport Chess Club has been a fixture of Kansas City's chess community since 1986. For nearly four decades, we've brought together chess players of all backgrounds and skill levels in the heart of Kansas City's vibrant Westport neighborhood.
We're proud to be a welcoming, inclusive community where diversity isn't just tolerated—it's celebrated. Our members come from all walks of life, united by their love of chess and the friendships formed over the board.
Whether you're a complete beginner taking your first steps in chess or a seasoned tournament player, you'll find a home at Westport Chess Club.
Our philosophy
At Westport Chess Club, we believe chess is for everyone. We're committed to creating a space where:
- All skill levels are welcome - From complete beginners to experienced tournament players
- Diversity is celebrated - Our club reflects the wonderful diversity of Kansas City's Westport neighborhood
- Learning is encouraged - Whether through our teaching demos, casual games with stronger players, or friendly advice
- Fun comes first - Yes, we have rated tournaments, but we never forget that chess is a game meant to be enjoyed
- Community matters - The friendships and connections made over the board are just as important as the games themselves
Our home: The Westport Flea Market
The venue
We meet at the Westport Flea Market Bar & Grill, a Kansas City institution in its own right. Located at 817 Westport Rd, Kansas City, MO 64111, the Flea Market is a casual, comfortable bar & grill just south of downtown Kansas City.
We play in the room with a window facing Westport Road (on the north side of the building). It's a great space with plenty of room for chess boards and good lighting.
Food & drink
The Westport Flea Market has been rated Kansas City's best burger since 1987. They also have more than 40 beers on tap, plus a full menu of pub favorites.
As club members, we get special food and drink discounts. Feel free to order something while you play.
Club officers
Look for one of our officers when you visit. We're here to help!
Rich
Sir Not-appearing-in-this-film
Michael Brooks
International Master
Brent
Where does the horse go?
Ben
Grandmaster Grob
Nathan
Vice Vice Baby
Ray: TD, PhD
Retired from club leadership but very deserving of recognition
Chess variants
Do we play other games?
We're a chess club, and we stick to chess and chess variants. Some popular variants we occasionally play include:
- Bughouse - Fast-paced team chess with piece trading between boards
- Chess960 (Fischer Random) - Randomized starting positions
- Computer Chess - Some members enjoy playing around with chess engines and analysis
We don't play Checkers, Go, or other board games (just chess in its many forms!)