A studio for all things mahjong is coming to Falls Church.
The Arlington-founded mahjong business Talk Tiles to Me is opening a new events space and shop at 113 Rowell Court. Founder Tori Rittinger hopes to debut the new studio sometime next month, offering a new home base for her group’s growing audience.
“I think the area needs it,” Rittinger told ARLnow. “The demand is there, with people coming together and playing mahjong. So, why not just have a community gathering space for it?”
‘Talk Tiles’ hosts mahjong lessons, events
- Since its founding in May 2024, Talk Tiles to Me’s team of instructors have offered private and group lessons across the region.
- The group frequently sells tickets to themed pop-up games in Arlington and Falls Church, partnering with businesses like Soul Thai and The Board Room.
- In the new space, Rittinger hopes to add new programs, like kids’ camps, “mommy and me” games, drop-in playtimes and a mahjong brunch club.
The studio has themed rooms
- The new studio replaces a former counseling office next-door to Dominion Wine and Beer.
- It will be divvied up into four game rooms, decorated to represent mahjong tile suits and honor the game’s Chinese roots, Rittinger said.
- The studio can accommodate up to eight mahjong tables and a small merchandise section across about 1,000 square feet.
‘Talk Tiles’ hopes to help build community
- Rittinger first came across mahjong in 2021 when she played with a friend in Fort Worth, Texas. She said the game’s strategic play and social aspects had her “hooked immediately,” and she later became an instructor.
- Her favorite parts of the job include introducing players at social events, watching friendships develop and seeing new players understand the game.
- “It’s a good addiction,” Rittinger said. “The community building part of it and bringing people together is wonderful.”
