Global Toy News Insight
Perkins Restaurant & Bakery’s limited-edition mahjong set is an interesting example of how games are moving beyond traditional toy and hobby retail and becoming tools for experiential brand marketing. The “Stay & Play” initiative encourages guests to spend more time around the table by pairing dining with social gameplay, while tapping into mahjong’s growing visibility with younger consumers. For the toy and game industry, collaborations like this show how restaurants and lifestyle brands can become unexpected channels for introducing tabletop play to broader audiences.
The bigger opportunity is the continued convergence of food, entertainment, social experiences and limited-edition merchandise. Rather than simply placing a logo on promotional merchandise, Perkins is connecting the product directly to an activity consumers can experience with friends and family. For game makers and licensors, that creates potential for partnerships with hospitality brands that can turn games into experiential marketing, generate social engagement and introduce products to consumers outside the traditional toy aisle.
Perkins Restaurant & Bakery Invites Families to Stay and Play with Limited Edition Mahjong Set
Bringing a modern twist to a timeless game, the exclusive set gives guests another reason to gather around the table
ATLANTA, Sept. 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Perkins Restaurant and Bakery, the iconic family-dining restaurant known for homestyle meals, all day value, and its iconic bakery, is inviting guests to linger a little longer with the launch of a limited-edition Perkins Mahjong set.
Inspired by the Perkins experience and the traditions that have brought families together around its tables for 60 years, the exclusive set puts a Perkins inspired spin on one of the world’s most beloved tabletop games. Designed for both longtime Mahjong players and those discovering the game for the first time, the set celebrates the simple joys of gathering, playing and spending time together.
The Perkins Mahjong set is crafted in South Florida in partnership with an independent artist, and features custom-illustrated tiles inspired by familiar Perkins favorites. The artwork brings the Perkins experience to the game with illustrations of stacks of pancakes, sizzling bacon, the brand’s iconic fresh-baked pies, steaming coffee mugs filled with Perkins Bottomless Pot of Coffee, and even the familiar Perkins storefronts.
“Perkins has always been a place where generations come together, whether it’s over a stack of pancakes, a slice of pie or a cup of coffee,” said Matt Carpenter, Brand President for Perkins Restaurant and Bakery. “Mahjong captures that same spirit of connection. It gives people a reason to sit down, put their phones away and spend time together, and we are excited to bring a Perkins twist to a game with so much heritage.”
From grandparents teaching grandchildren how to play to friends gathering for a regular game night, Mahjong offers an opportunity to connect across generations. Perkins Mahjong set brings that same spirit of togetherness beyond the meal, giving families and friends another way to gather around the table.
The launch also taps into the renewed interest in Mahjong among younger generations, introducing the classic game to a new audience while celebrating those who have enjoyed it for years. With its custom artwork and limited availability, the Perkins Mahjong set is designed to be as much a conversation piece as it is a game.
“Some of the best moments happen after the plates are cleared, when people decide to stay a little longer,” added Carpenter. “That’s what Perkins has always been about. Creating a place where people can connect, share a meal and make memories together.”
The Perkins mahjong sets will be available in limited quantities and guests can sign up to win an exclusive set beginning September 28, 2026. Guests should go to http://perkinsrestaurants.com/mahjong to enter for a chance to win. Registration closes on October 15, 2026. For more information visit https://lp.perkinsrestaurants.com/giveaway.
About Perkins Restaurant & Bakery
Perkins Restaurant & Bakery has been a beloved family dining destination for more than 65 years, known for its all-day breakfast, hearty meals, and fresh-baked pies made daily. Perkins serves up American classics of yesterday that meet the tastes of guests today, generously portioned and priced just right. With locations across the U.S. and Canada, Perkins continues to serve up classic comfort food and moments that matter.
