There is no law in my state either. However there is one establishment that does ask you to put the cards away for whatever reason. As I don't go there anyway, I really don't care.

I don't think there are any laws that prohibit card magic. Some people are very ignorant and they think anything to do with cards is gambling and if gambling is not allowed then that is the reason. I would explain that to them and tell them I don't care to eat in places where the staff are unable to understand the law.

I was watching a show on the history of gambling and one person said that the laws, at one time, were so draconian, that you could be arrested for gambling if you just tossed a coin in the air to the waitress for her tip!

Unfortunately, the gambling laws in this country, in each of the 50 states, fluctuates wildly depending on the religious furvor of the state or the country at any particular time in history. Of course, the same applies to just about any vice.

I am definitely going to have to check the law in Ohio regarding cards in restaurants with bars. Haven't run into the problem personally, but you never know.

Keep in mind, it's not just state laws that may apply, county and local governments also have authority, and frequently pass ordnances that affect food and beverage establishments.

Wow what were you thinking! Why would you do magic LET ALONE CARD MAGIC at a restuarunt! Lock him up and through away the key!
Just kidding, ya I guess they doent want gamblers losing money, then blameing the store for letting him get drunk enough to play such a bad hand.