Understanding the Baccarat Table
Learning the layout of a Baccarat table is important in learning how to play the game which is sometimes referred to as Blackjack’s easier cousin. In simple terms, knowing where to sit and where to place your bets will save you from potential icy glares. Nobody wants to be the guy (or girl) that slows down a game.
(Speaking of avoiding embarrassment, we’ll be sitting down at a “Bah-Kah-Raa” table and not a “Back-A-Rat” table. Back a Rat would presumably involve Sammy Davis, Dean Martin or any other member of the infamous Pack.)
Depending on the variation, Baccarat tables will vary in size to accommodate anywhere from seven to fourteen players. Mini Baccarat (like the name implies) will have the smaller table with seven seats. American Baccarat which is another name for regular Baccarat uses the traditional table with seats for up to 14 people. You have seats one though seven on one side and seats eight though fifteen on the other (Wait…. Isn’t that fifteen seats? Since gamblers are a superstitious sort, you’ll never find a Baccarat table with “13”. Would you sit at seat thirteen? We’ll be at seat number seven… just in case!)
A traditional Baccarat table is cut in a rough oval shape. A square is cut out on one side for the two dealers. On the other side is a small oval indention for the “Croupier”. He or she functions like a supervisor/ caller and directs the play of the game. Some Baccarat tables will have the croupier and dealer all rolled up into one person.
A mini Baccarat table is cut into rough half circle. A small square cutout across from the players provides a spot for the Croupier/Dealer (since it’s a smaller table, it’s usually a Jack (or Jane) of all trades performing all the duties.)
Despite the variations, you’ll have a spot to wager that the winning hand will belong to the player, the banker, or end in a tie. That’s it – three bets (really simple, right?)
Place your chip (or chips) in the appropriate spots (it’ll be evident). Usually Tie will be at the top, Banker in the middle and Player in the bottom line. All tables will have spots for chips, a shoe for cards and the ever so important commission box on top of expensive felt to give the table a touch of class.
So if you’re new to the game, start off at the mini Baccarat table. Everything’s smaller (including bets) and the dress code is more relaxed. Once you get some playing experience, graduate to the big Baccarat table and enjoy the action from fourteen cheering players.
Good luck on your next bet!
