01 — Who we are

En Passant Foundation was established in 1995 with the goal of promoting the game of chess in all its facets on a non-commercial and independent basis. Enjoying a drink, beginners, advanced players, and connoisseurs of all nationalities gather to discuss and play this noble game.

Our venue on the corner of Looijerstraat and Nieuwe Molstraat is known as the Chess Café (Looijerstraat 1, 2512 CK The Hague).

02 — Every Saturday

Every Saturday evening we host a blitz tournament (3 minutes per person + 2 seconds per move). Everyone is welcome to join, from beginners to experienced players. You can sign up on-site until 8:30 PM.

03 — Outdoor chess

In 2020, we started outdoor chess. On Saturday afternoons between 1:00 PM and 6:00 PM, anyone is welcome to take a seat at the chess tables. Passersby play a game together or ask for a quick tutorial.

In good weather, you can find us on the square opposite Noordeinde Palace. In case of rain, storm, or cold, we head indoors to Amare (Spuiplein 150).

04 — More than chess

Besides chess, we also offer other strategic games such as backgammon, go, stratego, checkers, and Chinese chess. Since 2026, visitors have also been playing shogi (Japanese chess) on Thursday and Friday evenings.

05 — League matches

The Chess Café is the permanent home base of the Chesshouse chess club. While En Passant Foundation provides the location, two club teams play their home matches here in the competitions of the The Hague Chess Federation (HSB) and the Royal Dutch Chess Federation (KNSB).

Are you a serious chess player looking to play league matches? Join the Chesshouse chess club as a member. Feel free to drop by on a Friday or Saturday evening; there is usually a member around for a test game and to estimate your rating.