We were able to book a premium king room for $164 through tablet.com. The usual rate is more like $225. Our room was small but clean and nicely decorated. We had a very tiny balcony--not worth paying extra for it. The bed was comfortable. The pillows were not. The shower was adequate but nothing special. And we had to run the fan to mask noise from adjoining rooms and overhead. The breakfast is excellent if you like carbs, but at least the pastries are "real," not the usual cellophane-wrapped cardboard served at hotel breakfast bars. There was also yogurt, dry cereal, and fresh strawberries. The desk clerk (Linda, I think) was outstanding. We were accidentally put in a standard room. When we pointed out the error, she was very gracious and accommodating in making sure we got the room we had paid for.
BOTTOM LINE: If you can get the room at a discount (or if you're willing to pay extra for a better-than-average hotel breakfast), this is a good bet. If you have to pay full price, there are less expensive options in town.
- Ambrose Hotel Santa Monica
- Ambrose Hotel
