NYC?

What's the best spot for a beginner to start playing over the board games in NYC? I know there's a lot of places for chess in general but I'd appreciate someone point me to a few places that would be good for a lower rated player that's never played OTB.

I used to live in NYC in the 80's and tournament play in clubs was just about the only way to get a serious game. I had to pay to play in most tournaments. Some weren't too expensive. Some with big $ prize funds cost a lot to enter.

Online play is much more convenient. And costs much less.

NYC yall got the Chess Forum. Never been but I've seen YouTube videos about it. I think he rents tables by the hour

Join a chess club. I'd estimate that most of them have regular rated games, a lot of them have 1 game each week u can play if u want consistent rated competition. Also, many of them have 1 day weekend tournaments (maybe 3 games). It doesn't matter what ur level is, just go play & there will be many players at every level.