It’s not just a game played by old folks — mahjong is riding a new wave of popularity across all demographics in Northern Virginia. This Thursday’s opening of Talk Tiles To Me Mahjong Studio in Falls Church marks the newest mahjong destination.
“It’s this wonderful way to be social with people and shut down all the open tabs in your brain while you’re playing,” says Tori Rittinger, mahjong teacher and owner of Talk Tiles To Me. “I think it brings a sense of community.”
Rittinger notes that her studio plays and teaches American mahjong, which differs slightly from the Asian version. Those interested in the Chinese tile-based game that started in the 1800s and spread to America in the 1920s have plenty of local opportunities to learn and play.
“It’s just taken off,” says Rittinger, of Arlington. “We [Talk Tiles To Me Mahjong Studio] opened our league the other day, and within 24 hours it sold out. So we opened another league for a different night of the week because it’s just so popular.”
Interested in mahjong? Here is a list of local spots to play.
Talk Tiles To Me Mahjong Studio, 113 Rowell Ct., Falls Church
Loudoun Mah Jongg League on Facebook
Mah Jongg at Temple Rodef Shalom
Open to all skill levels. Bring your Mah Jongg card; sets and light refreshments are provided. For those who already know the basics but want to grow their confidence, mentoring opportunities are available. The playing area is a fragrance-free zone to accommodate participants with allergies. Cost is $5 per session, cash only and you pay at door. 2100 Westmoreland St., Falls Church
Pozez Jewish Community Center (JCC) – Fairfax
Join a friendly game every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to noon. The JCC provides mahjong sets and welcomes players of all experience levels. 8900 Little River Turnpike, Fairfax
McLean Community Center / Old Firehouse Center
Free drop-in board games including mahjong. The old firehouse hosts mahjong-only sessions on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., with general open play on Tuesdays, some Saturdays, and other weekdays. 1234 Ingleside Ave, McLean
Alexandria’s Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library
The Barrett Branch mahjong group meets the second and fourth Thursdays of the month. Space is available for up to 12 players, so it’s first-come first-served as game tables fill. 717 Queen St., Alexandria
Art House 7
This venue hosts various three-week events, priced $130 to $180. 5537 Langston Blvd., Arlington
Feature image courtesy of Tori Rittinger/Talk Tiles To Me
