How To Play Pai Gow Poker At The Casino

Walking through the table games section, you will often see players relaxed and chatting around the Pai Gow Poker table.


It is the ideal game for players who want to sit, enjoy free drinks, and play for hours without risking massive losses.

The Basic Rules of Pai Gow Poker

After placing your bet, the dealer distributes exactly seven cards to every player and to themselves.


The single most important rule of the game is that your five-card hand MUST be strictly higher in value than your two-card hand.

The dealer must set their hand according to a strict set of casino rules called the 'House Way'If you are confused, you can always ask the dealer to set your hand according to the House Way for youBecause tying is so common, the casino takes a 5% commission on all winning bets to maintain their house edge
How to Optimize Your Pai Gow Hands

The strategy in Pai Gow revolves entirely around making your two-card hand as strong as legally possible without fouling.


If you are dealt two pairs, the general rule is to split them, putting the smaller pair in your two-card hand.

Starting HandFive-Card Hand (High)Two-Card Hand (Low)Pair of Aces & Pair of 4sPair of AcesPair of 4sFull House (Three 8s, Two Kings)Three 8sPair of Kings

By learning how to balance your high and low hands perfectly, you can enjoy one of the best table games in the casino.