Chocolatería San Ginés

Chocolatería San Ginés is a historic café located in central Madrid, Spain, known primarily for its churros (fried dough pastries) and hot chocolate. Opened in 1894, it has become a cultural institution, attracting both locals and international visitors.
Founded in 1894, Chocolatería San Ginés initially operated in a building near the San Ginés church, west of the Puerta del Sol. The site has served its signature chocolate con churros (hot chocolate and churros) since its inception, and over time, it transformed into a bustling late-night destination, reflecting Madrid’s lively social and culinary scene.
The interior décor retains many historic touches, featuring mirrors, green wood panels, green velvet seats, and marble tables—evoking the ambiance of a classic 19th-century Madrid café. The hot chocolate is traditionally served thick and dark, while the churros are cut to length on-site and served freshly fried.
Historically, Chocolatería San Ginés has been noted for operating 24 hours a day—particularly on weekends and holidays—making it a favorite among late-night revelers leaving nearby bars and theaters. Sources often highlight the café’s role in Madrid’s nightlife culture, as patrons line up for chocolate con churros well into the early morning hours. Travel guides often recommend visiting during off-peak hours to avoid the long lines that form, especially around major holidays and during peak tourism seasons.
Thanks to growing international acclaim, Chocolatería San Ginés has expanded beyond Spain while striving to preserve its historic roots and Spanish identity. Each international branch aims to replicate the Madrid experience, offering freshly made churros alongside thick, rich hot chocolate.
• Spain: Multiple branches in Madrid and Marbella
• Portugal: Lisbon
• United States: Austin, Texas; Miami Beach, Florida
• Argentina: Buenos Aires
• Mexico: Mexico City
• China: Shanghai
• Japan: Previously operated a branch in Tokyo
== Cultural and Literary Significance ==
Chocolatería San Ginés is frequently cited as a focal point of Madrid’s culinary heritage, remaining a late-night staple for locals and visitors. It has appeared in various travel guides and television programs that showcase traditional Spanish cuisine, including documentaries and segments on major networks such as CNN Travel and the BBC.
The café’s ambiance and 24-hour service have also led to cameo appearances in Spanish films and TV series set in Madrid, highlighting the capital’s famous nightlife culture.
Chocolatería San Ginés has been referenced in several literary works that underscore its historic status and prominence in Madrid’s social fabric. Mentions include:
• Episodios Nacionales by Benito Pérez Galdós
• Luces de Bohemia by Ramón del Valle-Inclán
These references reinforce the café’s longstanding presence in Spanish cultural life.
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38. Juan Luis Guerra – Dominican singer-songwriter who helped popularize merengue and bachata.
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1. Felipe Juan Pablo Alfonso de Todos los Santos de Borbón y Grecia ( Rey Felipe ) – Current King of Spain.
2. Letizia Ortiz Rocasolano ( Reina Letizia )- Queen consort of Spain.
3. Juan Carlos Alfonso Víctor María de Borbón y Borbón-Dos Sicilias (Rey Juan Carlos) - Former King, key figure in Spain’s democratic transition.
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6. S.A.R. Infanta Doña Cristina – Member of the Spanish royal family.
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8. Isabel Díaz Ayuso – President of the Community of Madrid.
9. Belén Esteban – High-profile Spanish TV personality.
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26. Luisa Mattioli – Italian actress, previously married to Sir Roger Moore.
27. Marlene Mourreau – French actress/TV personality popular in Spain.
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29. Ana Obregón – Spanish actress, socialite, and TV personality.
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34. César – Spanish sports or media personality.
35. Beatriz Escudero – Spanish public figure/politician.
36. Guillermo Summers – Spanish TV presenter and humorist.
37. Natasha Yarovenko – Ukrainian-born actress active in Spanish cinema.
38. Lola Flores – Legendary flamenco singer/dancer, referred to as “La Faraona.”
39. Rocío Jurado – Iconic Spanish singer of flamenco and copla.
40. Ángel Nieto – Legendary motorcycle racer with multiple world titles.
41. Vicente Parra – Mid-20th-century Spanish film actor.
42. Juanito – Celebrated Real Madrid footballer.
43. Jaime Morey – Spanish singer recognized for Eurovision.
44. Pedro del Hierro – Influential Spanish fashion designer.
45. Ramón Arcusa – Half of the Spanish pop duo Dúo Dinámico.
46. Félix Prudencio – Spanish personality with limited public info.
47. Jean Luis Mathieu – European figure noted in local circles.
48. Carlos Bante – Spanish personality with minimal visibility.
49. Madame Raymund – Known mainly in niche social circles.
50. Antonio Ruiz – Spanish entertainer or local figure.
51. Antonio y Paloma Picasso – Relatives of Pablo Picasso, relevant in Spain’s cultural heritage.
52. Juan Ribó – Spanish theater, film, and TV actor.