Game night (and morning) gatherings require a light and easy menu that can be enjoyed between—and without—hands. Items that are served on skewers or can be eaten easily with a fork—no knife, and non-greasy finger foods are key. If your mahj group, like mine, gathers mid-morning or after dinner, it is safe to assume guests will not arrive ravished, but may want a little something.

I'd also set everything up on a sideboard rather than the Mahjong table. Guests can help themselves before sitting down, and you won't have to interrupt the game to serve anything.

daytime Gatherings

When playing in the morning or early afternoon, focus on a mix of sweet and savory brunch items: tea sandwiches; deviled eggs, quiche or a frittata; bread or muffins, and fruit. Add shortbread cookies and you’re really set.

Create a menu of three items for a small group or include all the above for a more robust spread. I always keep coffee, an assortment of teas (black, green, herbal) and plain sparkling water (with fresh limes and lemons) on hand, as well. Don’t forget the cocktail napkins!

Here are a few of my go-tos: