Old World Shop in NYC
Walk into the Village Chess Shop on Thompson Street and you will see graying men huddled over a game and hear classical music in the background.
Until midnight regulars strategize on how to protect their king, throw the dice for a game of backgammon, or stop the clock during a move in speed chess.
Located a few blocks from the boards at Washington Square Park, the Village Chess Shop opened in 1972, the same year Bobby Fischer became World Champion.
Owner Larry Nash describes his shop as peaceful and apart of “old” New York, but admits every once in a while a competitor might leave with a bloody nose.
Also known as a “chess museum” because of the novelty chess sets displayed in the window, Nash says, “Even in the best of circumstances, it’s hard to be a business like this.”
Listen to why people have been going to the Village Chess Shop for over 35 years.