Ambassador Hotel OKC
photos by Dawn Garcia
The Ambassador Hotel OKC | 1200 N Walker Ave | Oklahoma City, OK 73103
[dropcap letter=”O”]klahoma is a place I never really had on my radar … Until I met my partner. He is from a small city called Harrah and so this year, we (As a family) decided to head to Oklahoma City.I cannot say enough how much this city impressed me from the boldness of their culinary breadth to the service at their hotels to the charm of the people. I fell in love.
Working directly with the Travel Bureau for OKC, my one fear was what the hotels would be like. I was searching for a place that would meet my expectations, which is a tall order, but Tabbi Burwell with Visit OKC suggested The Ambassador Hotel. Located in historic midtown, I was elated when we arrived. The entry alone was beautiful with a twist of modern meets Bohemian chic. As we entered, we were greeted by a happy staff, a lobby adorned with orchids and pristine furniture that had all the class I adore.
Traditionally, this hotel is geared towards high end business travelers so the rooms are only meant for one or two at best. We were – three – which immediately posed an adventure of sorts. The front desk moved us from the initial smaller room to a larger one and brought up an aerobed for my daughter. Even when the aerobed decided to not work, they sent their staff out to get us a brand new one. That’s the kind of four star service we all wished existed unilaterally but here at Ambassador? They value every single guest.
the ROOM
The room was bathed in grays and whites with unique features that gave it a sense of beautiful originality. Especially for a business boutique hotel. True to the term, boutique, the bathroom door? A large mahogany wooden slat sliding door. The shower? Dual nozzle, spa like faucets and the vanity was a gorgeous oversized white porcelain square laying in the dark wooden basin. It was lovely. Our view was of the city and as dusk set, the lights of the skyline were something to behold. (Plus every day we saw the Kaiser’s Diner and the ICE CREAM parlor sign out front and you can’t beat that!)
We all found ways to make the space work for us and quite honestly? Had we known, I think we would have stayed here the entire time.
the HOTEL
As you enter you are greeted with decor that emits sophistication. Hues of grays and creams, innovative furniture, and fresh orchids inhabit the lobby area. And, while you can’t see it, the scents coming from the Viceroy Grille kitchen lure you in even further. While the Hotel fitness room is just outside in a separate building, considering how small this hotel is, I think it’s great they still had one. There is a small pool (which I think they should create an outdoor lounge and hot tub in its stead) but it’s the decor inside, the hotel restaurant, and the cute little bar up top that add to the charm.
When it was time for us to head out and explore, I’d say the greatest aspect was their shuttle service. Door to door, you are taken from the Hotel to anywhere you need to go (within 15 miles which covers quite a lot of ground!). The shuttle vans are clean and the drivers couldn’t be nicer.
The location of Ambassador OKC is also something to be thrilled about. With waffle houses, bars, and an ice cream parlor a stone’s throw away, it’s easy to get around (you must go in and order an ice cream. It’s the most delectable gluttony well worth the calories!). I suggest taking the shuttle to Bricktown, the Arts District, Automobile Alley and Downtown OKC. The museums and sites are beautiful, particularly the Oklahoma City Memorial dedicated to those who lost their lives in the Oklahoma bombing in 1995. And the food? The food in Oklahoma City blew me away! (Covell Park, Guernsey Park, Hillbilly’s, and Kitchen 324 are must eats!)
the FOOD + DRiNK
Dining in-room for breakfast was a real treat! The pancakes were sublime! We did dine twice for lunch and dinner at the Viceroy Grille as well. My favorite dishes were the sides, especially the flash-fried brussels sprouts and roasted beet salad that were delicious! The menu changes but it’s certainly a good hotel restaurant.
Upstairs on the tip tip of the hotel is the O Bar. With one of the best views of Oklahoma City, this penthouse bar is a lovely place to pause and grab a cocktail. While the cocktail program isn’t quite as playful as it could be, I can definitely see it’s potential. My only suggestion is that they get more creative with garnishes, ingredients and overall presentation. Once you’ve had cocktails in LA + NY, you begin to appreciate the simplicity of a well made, beautifully presented drink. With the upscale appeal of this hotel that was the only thing lacking. They do however, have a great array of wines and beers to choose from. Should you be hungry, you can also order from their dinner menu and the food is much more than mere bar food.
All in all I would stay at this hotel over and over. I was so pleased with the exceptional service, the quality of design and space, the thoughtful decor and the location. We’ve decided this is our new favorite OKC hotel. Thanks to Visit OKC for arranging this and inviting us to stay.
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Historically elegant yet completely modernized, the Ambassador Hotel Oklahoma City is situated within the beautifully renovated Osler Building in Midtown OKC. 1920’s era Art Deco architecture and charm meet all the modern amenities and experiences today’s guest seeks.
Breathtaking skyline views at O Bar have made it a destination for both locals and visitors alike. An ideal location for any visitor, as entertainment is steps away with history to the north and nightlife and entertainment just a few blocks south. Looking for a ride? Travel in style, as the hotel features complimentary luxury transportation via Cadillac Escalade within a few miles from Midtown.
