When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Texas Card House (Now TCH Social moved across street, next to Aquarium)
Why Texas Card House (Now TCH Social moved across street, next to Aquarium) is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Texas Card House, recently rebranded as TCH Social and relocated just across the street next to the Aquarium at 13530 US 183, Ste. 100, Austin, offers an outstanding venue for poker enthusiasts and social gatherings alike. This club stands out as a vibrant social hub where friends can meet in an energetic yet welcoming environment. Known for its well-organized poker tournaments, the venue creates intense yet friendly competition suitable for both novice and seasoned players. Beyond poker, TCH Social enriches the experience with a full food menu, draft beers, wines, and cocktails, making it a perfect spot not only for gaming but also for dining and socializing. The spacious interior with professional dealers and attentive management emphasizes quality customer service, ensuring visitors feel valued and comfortable. Its proximity to local attractions, especially the Aquarium next door, adds convenience for visitors integrating gaming with other leisure activities. The club also connects with sister locations in Dallas and Houston, underlining a growing network of premier poker destinations in Texas. Overall, TCH Social exemplifies a dynamic and lively community space ideal for gamers and social groups looking to combine entertainment with a friendly neighborhood atmosphere.
Here's what people think of Texas Card House (Now TCH Social moved across street, next to Aquarium)
As of recent, Texas Card House (Now TCH Social moved across street, next to Aquarium) holds a 4.3-star rating based on 188 reviews.
Reviews of Texas Card House, now operating as TCH Social in Austin, reveal a strong appreciation for its top-notch poker experience and welcoming atmosphere. Many users highlight the professional, skilled dealers and efficient management, contributing significantly to the club's reputation for quality service. Reviewers often mention the personal recognition from staff, enhancing the friendly and inclusive environment. The availability of a comprehensive food and drink menu also receives positive remarks for complementing the gaming sessions. On the downside, some visitors have noted issues with parking, particularly on weekends due to the proximity to the popular Aquarium, which can make vehicle access challenging. A few players expressed a desire for technological improvements, such as automatic card shufflers, to speed up gameplay and modernize the experience. Security measures, including metal detectors and armed guards at Texas locations, might also feel intimidating to some, although they are recognized as standard industry practices. In summary, the reviews indicate that the Texas Card House/TCH Social maintains a high-quality poker venue with excellent customer care, balanced by some logistical challenges but overall highly recommended for its entertainment value and social ambiance.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Erica Leos
This was my first time dining/drinking at the Texas Card House. I drank the Blackberry Bomb Pot (picture is prior to stirring, gin was sitting at the top) and enjoyed the Southwest Meatloaf. The meatloaf is ESPECIALLY filling if your belly is on empty. 😋 The bartenders and servers are AMAZINGLY nice and offer the BEST recommendations!!! I won’t hesitate to dine/drink here again.
Dee Dee
This place is okay for a variety of cash games and poker tournaments. Not much to complain about, except the hourly rate is a bit too expensive. My biggest complaint is the food. If you plan on ordering any food forget it! Every time I ordered food it was subpar. The mashed potatoes were dry and lacked any real flavor or creaminess. As for the Caesar salad, it was overpriced and poorly balanced—half the bowl was just croutons, which overwhelmed everything else. Not worth the cost.
cory
Great friendly staff and good people! I love the full bar service that they offer.
James Jones
Friendly staff, incredible multi-option coffee maker, pool tables, affordable snacks/food. Like any business they are there to make money, but they don't make you feel like it. By my second time there the floor and dealers knew me by name. Also, the action is good and the dealing is top notch.
Ezra2002
Mostly positive review here from me. PROS: management and staff all professional, floor rulings on hands generally correct, equipment is more than satisfactory, player disputes generally handled in the appropriate manner, place is clean. I personally get along well with the entire staff here, and am happy to consider some as friends. The beverage selection, at least as far as coffee and water are concerned, is excellent. Nominal charge for soda and sports drinks. CONS: At the end of the day, it is a business, but an hourly rate of $12.00 precludes me from offering up this establishment five stars. Furthermore, the lighting is rather dim. If you’re not careful, lighting can materially affect the quality of your play. In summary, I recommend this business. I should also mention that if you play early or late, you will receive a discount on your fees, which helps. If the fees were $9/hour and the lighting were impeccable...FIVE STARS NO QUESTION. Alas, this is not the case. So my endorsement comes with these two minor reservations, but I still enjoy coming here.
How to reach Texas Card House (Now TCH Social moved across street, next to Aquarium)
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Why Texas Card House (Now TCH Social moved across street, next to Aquarium) may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Texas Card House with your friends?
Gathering your friends at Texas Card House (TCH Social), now relocated right across the street next to the Aquarium, offers an exhilarating social experience that combines excitement, camaraderie, and entertainment all under one roof. This venue isn't just a poker room; it is a vibrant hub where friends and families come to connect through shared interests and lively games. The atmosphere is crafted to accommodate both seasoned players and casual visitors, making it an ideal spot for socializing and friendly competition alike. With a solid 4.3-star rating from nearly 200 reviews, TCH Social’s blend of high-quality service, polished aesthetics, and a welcoming community makes it an outstanding meetup destination. The location near the Aquarium also adds an extra layer of appeal, making it convenient for groups looking to enjoy multiple attractions in one outing. Whether your group seeks a spirited poker tournament, laid-back card games, or simply a place to unwind with great food and drinks, rallying at Texas Card House promises memorable moments filled with fun, strategy, and laughter.
What activities does Texas Card House offer for group meetups?
Texas Card House is fundamentally renowned for its poker games, which are the core attraction drawing enthusiasts from across Texas and beyond. The venue features a variety of poker formats from cash games to exciting tournaments, catering to all skill levels. Players can engage in games such as Texas Hold'em, Pot Limit Omaha, and Specialty Games like Drawmaha and Rebecca's Game, which keep the experience fresh and dynamic. Beyond poker, the club also hosts themed game nights and unique events—such as $20/40 limit mixed games and weekly pot limit games—that make every visit thrilling. It operates more like a social club, charging membership and seat fees instead of rake, which encourages a community feel as players share the thrill of competitive play in a legal, well-regulated environment. Beyond cards, TCH Social also offers a vibrant dining and bar experience with expertly crafted cocktails and casual bites, perfect for groups wanting to mix gaming with relaxation. This combination of competitive games, social ambiance, and dining makes it perfect for group meetups, where diverse interests can be enjoyed under one roof.
Why is Texas Card House ideal for hosting a meetup with friends or family?
Texas Card House excels as a meetup spot because of its welcoming, upscale yet laid-back environment designed to foster social interaction and community. Unlike typical bars or restaurants, it provides interactive entertainment that encourages conversation and teamwork, making it easy for groups to bond over friendly competition. The club invests heavily in quality dealer staff and customer service, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and enjoyable, whether they're poker pros or newcomers learning the ropes. With the venue’s interior aesthetics being praised for their pleasing design, guests enjoy a visually inviting space that adds to the overall experience. The location also makes it easy to plan a full day or evening out—after poker or social games, attendees can grab a meal or drinks onsite or extend their outing to nearby attractions like the Aquarium next door. For families and mixed groups, the club’s diverse schedule of events and non-poker social experiences creates a rich tapestry of activities that cater to varied preferences, all within a single, vibrant venue.
What makes the poker games at Texas Card House unique?
Poker at Texas Card House stands out due to Texas’s unique legal framework, which prohibits taking a rake from the pot. To function legally, TCH Social operates as a social club charging membership and seating fees, a model that enhances player experience by steering clear of typical house incentives and focusing purely on player skill and community interaction. The games tend to "play bigger," reflecting the larger-than-life Texas spirit, with a wide range of stakes attracting both casual players and serious competitors. The club is known for its high-quality dealers who keep games flowing smoothly and professionally, contributing to a seamless gaming experience. Specialty games like Drawmaha and Rebecca’s Game add interesting twists and variety beyond traditional poker, expanding options for players and keeping the atmosphere dynamic. This combination of strong legal compliance, game variety, and skilled staff creates a poker environment revered by local players as one of the best in Dallas and Texas overall.
Are there dining and other social amenities available at Texas Card House?
Yes, Texas Card House goes beyond being just a poker venue by offering a well-curated in-house restaurant and bar that provides excellent casual dining and signature cocktails. This dining experience complements the gaming action perfectly, allowing guests to relax and refuel without leaving the premises. The menu is designed to offer mouthwatering casual bites suitable for sharing, ideal for group gatherings where food encourages conversation and enjoyment. Furthermore, the venue runs exclusive discounts and promotions, enhancing the value for guests and making larger group outings more affordable. The focus on comfort and hospitality extends to creating a cozy yet energetic atmosphere, perfect for those who want to combine great food, drinks, and social gaming in one place. Whether kicking off with a casual meal before gaming or winding down after a big tournament, these amenities make Texas Card House a complete social destination.
How does Texas Card House support beginners and casual players?
Texas Card House welcomes players of all experience levels, making it a fantastic spot for groups with mixed poker skills. Beginners have access to a friendly environment staffed by knowledgeable dealers who help explain rules and guide novices through the gameplay. The club also offers lower-stakes games and frequent beginner-friendly events, which are less intimidating and more focused on learning and fun than high-pressure competition. Additionally, new members often benefit from promotions such as complimentary monthly memberships and special offers that reduce the initial cost barrier, making it easy to get started. This inclusion creates a supportive community feel where everyone can enjoy the social aspect of poker while gaining confidence. For groups including family or friends new to poker, Texas Card House’s approachable setup ensures everyone can join in the excitement without feeling overwhelmed.
What special events and promotions enhance the Texas Card House experience?
Texas Card House regularly hosts exciting tournaments, promotions, and specialty games that enhance the social and competitive atmosphere. The calendar often features regular events like Blast Pots, Bomb Pots, and mixed-limit games, which add variety and high-stakes thrills for enthusiasts. Seasonal and monthly promotions, like free breakfast offers with morning game sessions or joint memberships for friends joining together, provide additional incentives for groups to visit and come back frequently. These events foster a lively and engaging environment where players can test their skills, socialize, and potentially win prizes or tournament rewards. The promotion calendar is also integrated with digital platforms, making it easy for patrons to stay updated and plan visits around high-interest games. For groups, these special events create unique shared experiences that build memories and deepen friendships beyond the cards.
What is the location and accessibility of Texas Card House?
Texas Card House (now TCH Social) is conveniently located across the street from its previous site, directly next to the Aquarium in Dallas. This strategic location makes it an attractive option for group outings because it pairs well with other local attractions for a full-day or evening plan. The venue’s placement near major roads and public transportation routes facilitates easy access for guests coming from anywhere in the Dallas metropolitan area. Ample parking and a well-designed interior make arrival and navigation smooth, important factors for group events and meetups. The proximity to the Aquarium also offers a unique opportunity for mixed activities, allowing families or groups of friends to combine entertainment options seamlessly. Its central location in a bustling entertainment district situates Texas Card House as a focal point for social and gaming activities in Dallas.
How has Texas Card House established its reputation among poker and social clubs in Texas?
As part of a broader chain with multiple locations across Texas—including Austin, Rio Grande Valley, and Spring—Texas Card House has built a robust reputation for providing some of the best poker experiences in the Lone Star State. The club’s commitment to operating legally within Texas’s gaming laws while maintaining high-quality game environments has earned respect and loyalty from the Texas poker community. It is recognized for combining aesthetic design with operational excellence, featuring polished facilities and professional staff that enhance the overall player experience. The CEO’s vision of creating a social club atmosphere rather than a typical poker room contributes to its distinctiveness and appeal. This reputation attracts a diverse clientele ranging from local enthusiasts to visiting poker players seeking a top-tier, fun, and socially engaging venue. This well-earned status underscores Texas Card House’s standing as a premier destination for anyone interested in card games and social gatherings in Texas.
What are the customer ratings and feedback for Texas Card House?
With a rating of 4.3 stars based on approximately 188 reviews, Texas Card House enjoys positive feedback from its patrons. Many reviews highlight the quality of the dealers and staff as standout features that enhance the playing experience. Visitors also appreciate the inviting and aesthetically pleasing environment, noting that the venue strikes a great balance between professionalism and friendliness. Frequent mentions focus on the well-run tournaments, diverse game options, and overall value offered through promotions and inclusive membership benefits. While no business is without some criticism, the overall consensus paints Texas Card House as a reliable and enjoyable place, particularly for groups seeking a lively, social gaming atmosphere. This favorable reputation helps build confidence for first-time visitors considering it for a group meetup or special event location.
How can groups connect and stay informed about Texas Card House events?
Texas Card House maintains an active presence on social media platforms such as Instagram and Facebook, where it regularly posts updates about upcoming tournaments, special events, promotions, and operational announcements. Following these channels is the best way for groups and individuals to stay informed and coordinate visits around high-interest events. Additionally, the club offers newsletters and mailing lists that provide regular information and exclusive offers directly to subscribers, helping groups plan their outings efficiently. For larger groups, contacting the club directly via phone is encouraged to inquire about private reservations, group packages, or special event hosting. This level of communication ensures that visitors have all the resources needed to maximize their experience and tailor visits to their group’s preferences and schedules.
By combining world-class poker, a hospitable social environment, convenient location, and excellent amenities, Texas Card House (TCH Social) stands out as an exceptional place to rally with your friends or family, making every meetup memorable and fun-filled.