Casino etiquette for newcomers: a gentle introduction to the table

You need not be a regular to join a private gaming table. You do need five simple facts about how the room operates.

Wait for the dealer to invite you

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

Buy chips by placing cash on the table, never hand to hand

Lay bills on the felt; the dealer counts them before the camera and slides chips across. Cash never passes between hands. This is procedure, not discourtesy.

Handle cards with one hand only

At baccarat and blackjack, when cards are dealt face down, lift them with a single hand and keep them above the felt. It is the room’s oldest rule and the easiest to overlook.

Tip on wins, not on losses

A modest chip to the dealer after a winning hand is customary; tipping after a loss appears ostentatious. When uncertain, observe the table briefly — regulars demonstrate the etiquette.

Depart on your terms, not mid-loss

Knowing when to stop outweighs any betting system. We have watched guests double a bankroll on Tuesday and squander months of careful play chasing the same result on Friday. Set a limit and honour it.

Prepared by the editorial team at Emeraldstayhighland. Last revised 2026-07-13.