Casino manners for newcomers: a gentle introduction to the table

You need not be a habitué to take a seat at a private gaming table. You should, however, understand five small customs that govern the room.

Wait for the dealer to invite you in

A dealer mid-shoe will not pause to seat a newcomer. Stand a respectful metre back, meet their gaze, and wait for the nod. It will arrive.

Buy chips with cash on the felt, never hand-to-hand

Lay the bills on the table; the dealer counts them before the camera and pushes chips toward you. Currency never passes between hands. This is not discourtesy; it is procedure.

Handle your cards with one hand only

At baccarat and blackjack, when cards arrive face down, lift them with a single hand and keep them above the felt. It is the oldest rule in the room and the simplest to overlook.

Tip after a win, never after a loss

Sliding a modest chip to the dealer following a winning hand is customary; tipping after a loss appears theatrical. When uncertain, observe the table for a few hands — the regulars will teach you everything.

Depart when you choose, not when you are down

Knowing when to stop matters more than any betting system. We have watched guests double a bankroll on a Tuesday and surrender three months of careful play trying to repeat it on a Friday. Set a figure, and honour it.

Prepared by the editorial team at Topazmarinaquarters. Last updated 2026-07-20.