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.

We were in Santa Monica for 3 days in the end of September for a friend's wedding and while the rest of the wedding party stayed at the Doubletree, we opted for the similarly priced Ambrose. I'm glad we made that decision because the Ambrose felt much more homey. Breakfast was quite good, and we were able to park our rental car in the basement garage, making everything very convenient. Staff were super friendly and helpful with making suggestions of where to go in Santa Monica for the best Mexican food. Great stay overall!

We arrived several hours before check-in time, and as our room was not ready we were offerred a downgrade to a room that was available. Downgrade? The room we were given was delightful! We were on the ground floor, closest to the intersection. We had a private patio, that was a lovely place to sit with a newspaper & a cup of coffee.There was very minimal noise, as this hotel is on a tree-lined residential street. Yes, it is a very long walk to the beach. But the Ambrose has a London cab that will transport you within Santa Monica. Continental breakfast is included, and it's a pleasant meal - fresh berries, quality pastry, organic yoghurt, etc. - served in the lobby area or outside on the patio. When we return to Santa Monica, we will definitely stay at the Ambrose.

When I read the reviews of Trip Advisor, I was excited at the same time had concerns about the noise and other issues that I read. After the talk I had with Alex Cortez of the front desk, he put my mind at ease and true to his word, our 2 day stay was wonderful. I would also like to commend Linda Crocker, also of the front desk for all the helpful infomation about Sta. Monica. Early check-in was available and the room in the third floor was overlooking the garden and was quiet for the most part. It felt like a cozy, serene, simple home away from home.
Great free breakfast of fresh strawberries, delicious muffins and Tazo teas. Location was great, walking distance to the promenade and Santa Monica Pier( from what I have heard from the people who walked, about 25 minute walk), Wallgreens, CVS and to Wilshire Blvd. which has restaurants that one can enjoy. The staff were helpful and friendly.
My husband and I would like to come back in the near future.
We would definitely recommend this hotel to our family and friends.