Many people want a real poker table at home, but not everyone has a separate game room. A poker table with a dining top solves this problem: it is a dining table during the week and a poker table on game night. Here is a simple guide to help you decide if a 2-in-1 table is right for you.
How does a dining top work?
A dining top is a solid panel that sits on top of the poker table and covers the felt and the rail. With the top on, the table looks like a regular dining table. When it is time to play, you lift the top off and the poker table is ready. Store the top against a wall, behind a sofa or in a closet.
The benefits
- Saves space: one piece of furniture does two jobs, so you don't need a dedicated game room.
- Protects the felt: the top keeps the playing surface clean from spills, dust and pets.
- Looks like furniture: guests see a nice wood table, not a casino table, in your dining room.
Things to check before you buy
- Is the top included? On some tables the dining top is included. On others it is an optional add-on. Always check the product description.
- Weight of the top: solid wood tops can be heavy. Plan for two people to lift it on and off.
- Table height: a poker table is usually a little higher at the rail than a standard dining table. Check that your dining chairs are comfortable at that height.
- Storage space: decide where the top will go on game night before the table arrives.
Which tables offer a dining top?
The BBO Helmsley comes in walnut with a matching solid wood dining top included. It seats up to 8 players, a good size for most dining rooms.
The BBO Miya is a larger oval poker and dining table with soft LED lighting, made for hosts who want a statement piece.
For smaller rooms, the BBO Ginza is 55 inches round, seats up to 8 players and offers an optional dining top.
Our take
If your poker table will live in the dining room or living room, a dining top is one of the best upgrades you can choose. If you have a dedicated game room, you can skip the top and spend the money on chairs or LED lights instead. Not sure which size fits your space? Read our guide How to Choose a Poker Table for Your Home.
See all our poker tables, with free shipping to the lower 48 states. Questions? Call or text us at (774) 268-8868, Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm ET.