Chocolateria San Ginés
Madrid's legendary Chocolateria San Ginés, serving crisp churros and thick hot chocolate since 1894. An iconic stop for a taste of tradition.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Chocolateria San Ginés
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Madrid's legendary Chocolateria San Ginés, serving crisp churros and thick hot chocolate since 1894. An iconic stop for a taste of tradition.
Avoid Peak Weekend Crowds
Visit early or late on Saturdays and Sundays to bypass long lines that often form in the mornings.
Count Your Change
Be mindful when receiving change; some patrons have reported discrepancies, so check carefully.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Chocolate Cafe
Price
Mid-range
Phone
+34 916 03 43 19
Address
C. de López de Hoyos, 81, Chamartín, 28002 Madrid, Spain
Website
chocolateriasangines.com/Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iconic Churros with Velvety Hot Chocolate
Indulge in Madrid's most famous churros: perfectly crispy outside, soft inside, paired with rich, velvety hot chocolate. A must-try Spanish delicacy.
Historic Madrid Institution
Experience a cafe serving Madrid's best deep-fried churros for over a century, offering a cozy atmosphere and a taste of history.
The Chocolate Preparation Experience
Sit at one of the bars and witness the unique preparation of thick, creamy hot chocolate made right before your eyes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Avoid Peak Weekend Crowds
Visit early or late on Saturdays and Sundays to bypass long lines that often form in the mornings.
Count Your Change
Be mindful when receiving change; some patrons have reported discrepancies, so check carefully.
Choose Your Seat Wisely
Opt for a seat at the bar to potentially watch the mesmerizing preparation of the thick, creamy hot chocolate.
Patience is Rewarded
Despite occasional reports of staff behavior, a little patience can lead to an exceptional churro experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Avoid Peak Weekend Crowds
Visit early or late on Saturdays and Sundays to bypass long lines that often form in the mornings.
Count Your Change
Be mindful when receiving change; some patrons have reported discrepancies, so check carefully.
Choose Your Seat Wisely
Opt for a seat at the bar to potentially watch the mesmerizing preparation of the thick, creamy hot chocolate.
Patience is Rewarded
Despite occasional reports of staff behavior, a little patience can lead to an exceptional churro experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Chocolateria San Ginés is widely praised for its iconic churros and rich hot chocolate, offering a historic and cozy experience. While many rave about the deliciousness and value, some visitors have encountered issues with cramped seating and less-than-ideal service during peak hours. Despite these occasional drawbacks, it remains a beloved Madrid institution for a reason.
"You cannot visit Madrid without a visit to the world famous chocolateria San gines, it’s as simple as that. It was around €5.60 per person for this cup of chocolate and churros, I wouldn’t pick churros off a menu in any restaurant/cafe anywhere really, but here, it has to be done and I have to say, honestly, they’re like no churro I have ever tasted! These were lovely and I am so glad that I have been… I will be going back!
You make your order at the till and are given a receipt and escorted to your table. Once sat down, a waiter will come and collect your receipt and then make your order and deliver it to the table, the whole experience is lovely as well as simple.
Depending on the seat, the chocolate is prepared in front of you at one of the bars."
UnPhiltered
"The best churros and hot chocolate in the world!
This shop is a dream for churro lovers, the churros are perfectly crispy on the outside, soft inside, and always fresh. Paired with their rich, velvety hot chocolate, it’s an experience you won’t forget. Warm atmosphere, friendly service, and pure indulgence. An absolute must-visit!"
Mouny Namous
"You simply can’t leave Madrid without trying Chocolatería San Ginés. The chocolate is rich and velvety, and the churros are perfectly crisp, an unforgettable experience!"
Angela M. Santander M.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
It's most famous for its churros (crispy fried dough) and thick, rich hot chocolate, a classic Spanish treat served since 1894.
Many visitors find the experience and the quality of the churros and chocolate well worth the wait, especially during busy times.
Yes, if you choose a seat at one of the bars, you may be able to witness the preparation of the hot chocolate.
To avoid long lines, it's recommended to visit early in the morning or later in the day, especially on weekends.
While churros and chocolate are the main stars, they also offer coffee and other drinks.
There is no formal dress code; it's a casual cafe experience suitable for tourists and locals alike.
While most find the service friendly, a few reviews mention issues. It's advised to be patient, and always count your change.
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Just north of the Plaza Mayor, this locally-beloved cafe has been serving churros con chocolate to Madrileños for over a hundred years. Of the few cafes in Madrid that serve only drinking chocolate – so thick that you can almost stand your spoon up in it – and churros (tubular, deep-fried dough), this venerable place is the best-known and the best-loved. On Saturday and Sunday mornings, lines curl around the block, so get here early, or late.
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Located in pasadizo de San Ginés, a charming passageway just a stone’s throw away from Puerta del Sol, Chocolateria San Ginés is practically a Madrid institution. This iconic cafe became famous for serving one of the best deep-fried churros (if not the best) in the city. Freshly cooked, the churros are served hot and crispy, ready for being dunked in a thick and creamy chocolate dip.
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Treat your tastebuds to thick, luxurious hot chocolate and churros at this historic 24-hour cafe. 📍 Google Maps | Phone: (913)-656-546 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 12 am Mon-Wed, 24/7 Thu-Sun | Entrance: Free. When I was visiting Madrid, I spent a good chunk of time eating my way through all the dessert offerings.
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Finally don’t miss Chocolateria San Ginés, a Madrid institution which offers up Spain’s most famous churros (crispy doughnuts you dip into rich dark chocolate). San Ginés is actually most popular after dark – it’s the last stop Madrileños make on their way home after a night at the theatre or out on the tiles.
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