Pai Gow Poker is a fascinating and incredibly popular table game that blends ancient Chinese mechanics with modern American poker.

The game is famous for its incredibly high number of ‘pushes’ (ties), meaning your bankroll will last a very long time.

How to Set Your Hands in Pai Gow

Unlike traditional poker, the Joker can only be used to complete a straight or a flush, otherwise, it is always an Ace.

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 you
• Because 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

Because you need to win both hands to make a profit, you cannot just stack all your best cards in the five-card hand.

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

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