Our Commitment
Harbour Parlour is a dining and social parlour first, and our poker table nights are designed as an evening of entertainment, not a financial strategy. We are committed to ensuring that every guest who joins us at the physical tables does so with a clear understanding of the risks and a mindset of enjoyment.
At Harbour Parlour, responsible play is not a set of restrictions. It is a way of keeping poker in its proper place: a social pleasure within a broader evening of food, conversation, and good company.
Poker at Harbour Parlour is a social game, not a way to make money. We encourage guests to view any money spent at the table as the cost of an evening's entertainment, similar to a theatre ticket or a fine dinner.
It is easy to lose track of time during an engaging game. We encourage guests to set time limits for their play and to take regular breaks. Our staff can assist with reminders if requested.
Responsible play is also about maintaining healthy relationships. Poker should enhance your social life, not replace it. We foster a welcoming environment where conversation and camaraderie are as important as the cards.
Problematic play rarely announces itself. It tends to appear gradually, in small changes to spending, mood, and priorities. Knowing what to look for can help you act early.
Problematic play can manifest in various ways. Common signs include spending more money or time than intended, feeling restless or irritable when not playing, chasing losses, borrowing money to play, and neglecting responsibilities or relationships because of poker.
Ask yourself these questions honestly. If you answer ‘yes’ to several, it may be time to seek support or take a break from poker.
Balance is easier to maintain when you have a plan. These three practical tools can help you keep poker in proportion to the rest of your evening.
Tool 01
Before you arrive, decide on a maximum amount of money you are comfortable spending and a maximum amount of time you will play. Share these limits with a friend or write them down. Once you reach your limit, stop playing and enjoy the rest of the evening in our dining room or bar.
Tool 02
Regular breaks help you stay clear-headed and enjoy the social aspects of the evening. Step away from the table, stretch your legs, order a non-alcoholic drink, or simply breathe. Our table nights include scheduled intermissions for this purpose.
Tool 03
If you ever feel that poker is becoming more than entertainment, talk to someone you trust or reach out to a professional support service. There is no shame in asking for help, and taking action early can prevent more serious problems.
Our policies are designed to remove pressure, reduce risk, and make responsible play the natural choice. They apply to every table night and private poker event at Harbour Parlour.
All guests must be 18 years of age or older to enter the poker parlour. Valid government-issued photo identification is required and will be checked at the door. We reserve the right to refuse entry to anyone who cannot provide proof of age.
Harbour Parlour does not extend credit, offer loans, or cash cheques for poker play. All buy-ins must be made with cash or debit at the venue. There are no ATMs on the premises, and we encourage guests to bring only what they intend to spend.
Our team receives training on responsible play practices, including how to recognize signs of distress and how to intervene appropriately. Staff are available to provide information, offer breaks, or assist with self-exclusion requests.
Guests may request to be excluded from poker table nights for a specified period or indefinitely. To initiate a self-exclusion, speak with the manager on duty or contact us in advance. We will honour all self-exclusion requests without question.
If you are concerned about your own play or that of someone close to you, help is available. These services offer confidential support, information, and practical guidance.
Gambling: Help and Referral is a free, confidential, bilingual service available 24/7 across Québec. Trained counsellors provide support, information, and referrals to local resources.
CAMH offers resources and treatment for gambling-related issues, including self-help tools and clinical services. While based in Ontario, their online resources are accessible to all Canadians.
Peer support groups such as Gamblers Anonymous offer meetings in Montréal and across Québec. These groups provide a safe space to share experiences and receive encouragement from others.
From the moment you step through our doors, you are part of a community that values hospitality and well-being. Our staff are trained to notice when a guest may need a break, a glass of water, or a quiet word. We believe that a great evening is one where everyone leaves feeling good about their experience.
If you have any questions about responsible play, our policies, or how to access support, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our team is available by phone or email, and we are always happy to have a discreet conversation. Your well-being is our priority.
Harbour Parlour is intended for guests aged 18 and over. By continuing, you confirm that you are at least 18 years old.