Through loopholes in the existing state gambling laws, a few membership-based private cardrooms have started to appear across the state. In some localities, they're even licensed by the local authorities. This is true in Houston, which the Post Oak Poker Club calls home.
These clubs charge membership fees rather than rake and, in most cases, are cheaper than playing in a traditional casino. Their legality has come into question, though, and decisions by state lawmakers, the courts, and the attorney general may have an impact on whether or not they can continue to operate going forward.