Wendy Rubin

Wendy Rubin is a multifaceted figure in the poker world, known both for her entrepreneurial ventures and her active participation in the game. In New York City, she founded the Big Deal Speakeasy Casino, a 1920s-themed venue that operates as a licensed dealer academy by day and an invitation-only casino by night. Rubin also regularly plays in tournaments and home games, contributing to the local poker community.

Rubin has demonstrated her skills on the tournament felt. At the 2011 Borgata Spring Poker Open in Event 8 ($400+$50 Deep Stack Double Play NL), she made a memorable move. With around $100,000 in chips, she moved all-in with A-J and was called by Danny Cherlow's pocket queens. A queen on the flop looked like the end for Rubin, but the board ran out 10-K-Q, giving her a straight and a double-up.

Beyond tournaments, Rubin is a regular in home games. In the Esquire article "How I Kept My Weekly Poker Game During COVID-19," she is mentioned as a participant in “The Mango” game, where players have nicknames and unique bets. She is also an organizer of the New York Poker & Blackjack Meetup, a social group that hosts free-to-play casino nights at Big Deal Casino.

Rubin is the mastermind behind the Big Deal Speakeasy Casino, which opened in Manhattan. The venue offers a unique combination of a casino school and a speakeasy. By day, it operates as New York's only licensed dealer academy, teaching poker, blackjack, craps, and roulette. Specialized courses include “Beginning Texas Hold’em for Women” and “Intermediate Poker for Women,” aimed at encouraging confidence in a male-dominated space. The school has trained dealers who have gone on to work at casinos such as Sands Bethlehem.

By night, the space transforms into an invitation-only speakeasy casino with 1920s decor, professional dealers, and craft cocktails. The venue has become a popular choice for corporate events, private parties, and team-building activities. Rubin's attention to detail—from jazz music to Art Deco accents—creates an immersive Prohibition-era experience.

Rubin is deeply engaged in fostering the New York poker community. In addition to her meetup group, she hosts private games and encourages inclusivity through women-focused poker classes. Her efforts have helped create a welcoming environment for players of all levels.

Wendy Rubin has carved a unique niche in the poker industry, blending competition, education, and entertainment. Her ventures demonstrate that poker's value extends beyond the table, encompassing community building and innovative business models. She remains an active player and promoter of the game in New York City.