About us and the Play Zaal vision
The story of Play Zaal, our people and our vision. In Hobart's historic centre, on Elizabeth Street, we built the place where a well-appointed games room meets the tactical discipline and conviviality of a private poker club.
The Elizabeth Street tradition
Play Zaal grew from a real need in Hobart: the city lacked a polished, quiet place where enthusiasts could dig into board games by day and unwind in a civilised, focused card lounge by night.
Our club operates strictly on-site, in person. We offer no online environment; playing and trying out equipment is a personal experience with us.
Considered fit-out rather than chance
In the gaming world, the fit-out of the space is often overlooked. Our experienced room masters set out to build a room in Tasmania where table height, light, acoustics and walking space are taken as seriously as the game itself.
Every group has its own rhythm, pace and way of playing. In the Play Zaal room we pay attention to those details to find the setup that works best.
Strategic card play as a civilised pursuit
The poker tables in our lounge don't copy the noisy world of gaming arcades — they follow the calm of classic club culture. To us, poker is strategic decision-making, weighing the odds, patience and mutual respect.
On our club nights, experienced room hosts oversee proper play, letting participants measure their game in a friendly yet competitive setting — strictly with members and guests aged 18 and over.
The link between play and conversation
The vaulted spaces and acoustic finish of the building on Elizabeth Street let the two halves live side by side. While games are tried out and tables checked in the room by day, in the evening the lounge settles into the calm of softly rustling felt and focused play.
Our café, with fresh coffee and a small menu, lets guests recover in comfort between rounds or after a long evening.
Professionals behind the scenes
The core of the club is a group of committed Hobart professionals with years in the world of hospitality and card games.
Equipment specialist
Tables & setup
With hundreds of evenings behind him, he leads the fit-out of the room. Special attention goes to the height and stance of the tables and the spread of the light, so every group sits comfortably.
Head of gaming tables
Etiquette & rules
He's responsible for the correct, smooth and civilised running of the poker lounge. He makes sure disciplined tactical thinking and respect for fellow players stay central every evening.
Clubhouse coordinator
Comfort & planning
The coordinator of the guest experience and the layout of the rooms. He watches over the acoustics and comfort of the building, so concentration stays undisturbed in the games room and at the card tables alike.
Precise instruments and fine finishes
Every detail of the interior on Elizabeth Street in Hobart serves concentration. Matte-black steel frames, acoustic panels and premium green felt make up the interior, where sound is dampened and light falls precisely on the playing surfaces.
Workbench for the equipment
Assembling, aligning and replacing parts of our tables is done to tight tolerances, right at the workbench next to the room.
Our own poker tables
The ergonomics of our tables support hours of concentration, with a finish that keeps the card game running smoothly.
Four principles
Play Zaal works to clear, strict and honest guidelines. Our goal is a clean playing experience, whatever the circumstances.
A level-headed approach
When fitting out the room and choosing equipment we go by use and experience, not fashion. What works stays; what doesn't, we replace.
Manners
In the poker lounge, sportsmanship comes first. Our evenings ask every participant for attention to the game, respect for the opponent and observance of the club rules.
Local involvement
As a Hobart business we want to strengthen the local community in Tasmania. We're proud of our spot in the city centre and the historic surrounds of Elizabeth Street.
A responsible environment (18+)
The club room is a protected environment for adult guests. The lounge is open only to visitors aged 18 and over, which keeps club life grown-up, civilised and safe.
Frequently asked questions about Play Zaal
Do I need to reserve a time for the room in advance? 01
Yes — for a calm, undisturbed evening we advise booking ahead. That lets our staff focus fully on your group and set up the right table.
Can I join the poker nights as a beginner? 02
Absolutely. Our lounge also runs intro and orientation evenings, where our game hosts are glad to walk you through the etiquette and basic rules of the game.
What equipment and makers do you work with? 03
In our room we use tables, felt and accessories from recognised makers, chosen for durability and comfort. When fitting out, we always look at actual use.
How do I get to the Hobart venue? 04
The club sits in the heart of Hobart, at 55 Elizabeth Street. The room is easy to reach on foot or by public transport; parking is available in the surrounding streets.
Experience Play Zaal for yourself
Whether it's an afternoon of board games or a strategic evening in the lounge — our team would love to welcome you in Hobart.