Len and Bernice Perozni proudly share how, since 1961, members of the Perozni family have been providing food and accommodation at the Ambassador Motor Inn.
It all began in 1960 when Mike and Jean Perozni purchased a parcel of land on the corner of 16 Avenue and Moncton Road NE. They began construction of what would become the Ambassador Motor Inn. The land, purchased for $340,000, was strategically chosen because it sat along the soon-to-be-opened Trans-Canada Highway. Mike and Jean also selected the location because it was near the eastern edge of the city (The Crossroads had opened in 1959), and it offered easy access for travelers entering Calgary.
When the Ambassador opened in 1962, a room went for the then-exorbitant rate of $4.50 to $6.50 per night! One of its most unique features was a heated, kidney-shaped swimming pool—the first motel pool in Alberta.
The name “Ambassador” was chosen to convey class and elegance.
Amber’s Restaurant (a name derived from “Ambassador”) was built and opened in 1963. It became a popular dining spot for many years until it closed in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Len’s Den, a favoured local watering hole, also thrived for years.
Len, who grew up in the residential suite just off the front desk was deeply involved in the family business from a young age. He cleaned rooms, did laundry, checked in guests, and even hired some of the chambermaids. At just 17 years old, Len ran the motel while his father was sidelined by kidney stones.
In 1979, the final wing of the motel (along Moncton Road) was completed, adding 20 more rooms. The design formed a U-shape, allowing for only one entrance and one exit—enhancing both traffic flow and security.
Over the years, the Ambassador has served as a filming location. Notable productions include TV series such as Fargo and the upcoming JonBenét Ramsey series, and films like Under the Banner of Heaven and The Order.
Musicians including Paul Brandt and Beverley Mahood have also filmed music videos there. Famous guests include Stompin’ Tom Connors and “Little Jimmy Dickens.”
When asked about his proudest moments, Len mentions the joy of hosting families of athletes during the 1988 Winter Olympics—including the Italian women’s ski team and athletes from Guatemala. But Len shows the most evident pride when talking about how well he and Bernice worked together as a team—Len overseeing Food and Beverage and administrative roles, while Bernice managed the Front Desk and Human Resources. He attributes much of their success to Bernice—her strong skills and the genuine affection she inspires in both guests and staff.
