The Smoked Gambit

AKI invites skilled players for an evening of strategy, conversation, and quiet competition. Guided by Elie Y. Khairallah, guests will compete across five rapid rounds in an intimate setting designed for thoughtful play and meaningful connections.

About this experience

The Smoked Gambit

An evening of calculated moves, quiet competition, and meaningful conversation.

Join us for the next edition of The Smoked Gambit, bringing together chess enthusiasts for an intimate five-round tournament at AKI The Lounge.

Guided by Elias Y. Khairallah, President of the Amicale Chess Club and International Arbiter, the evening is open to both amateur and skilled players looking to enjoy thoughtful play, good company, and a little friendly competition.

Date: Wednesday, October 14th, 2026

Time: 7:00 PM

Place: AKI The Lounge, Kaslik

Tournament Format

5 Rounds

Open to skilled and amateur chess players

Participation Fee

$30 per person

Includes:

  • Tournament participation
  • One whisky
  • One cigar
  • Curated amuse-bouches by AKI The Lounge

Limited spots are available.

Reserve your spot through the Experiences section on the Akiki’s Cigars website, by WhatsApp on +961 71 254 547, or at events@akikis.com.

An evening where strategy, hospitality, and conversation come together.

Your Host

Host image

Elias Y. Khairallah is a FIDE Arbiter and Trainer, International Arbiter, President of Amicale Chess Club, and Sports Director at the Lebanese University. A respected figure in the regional chess community, he leads Amicale Chess Club, one of Lebanon's most active chess institutions dedicated to developing competitive players and promoting chess as a discipline of skill, strategy, and intellectual excellence.

The club has organized Arab and Asian international tournaments, bringing together players from across the region and beyond. Through regular training, competitions, and interaction with international champions and trainers, the club is committed to empowering its team members and continuously elevating their level of play.

For Elie, chess is more than a game—it is a respected sport that cultivates discipline, critical thinking, and lifelong learning.