Chocolatería San Ginés is quite possibly famous beyond famous. The kind of famous that has heritage and such legacy through word of mouth that passes it on to the realm of urban legend. This unique little café, decked in mirrors with green wood paneling, has served chocolate con churros (hot chocolate and churros) since 1894.

It’s been awhile since I’ve had San Ginés’ specialty, but this time of year just seems about right for hot chocolate and churros. Of course I can’t have any, unless I had a ticket to Madrid. Tucked away in a corner off Puerta del Sol is this century old little gem and during winter, when we were there, it was the most perfect thing you could have in the middle of the night. It was absolutely freezing outside, and the minute we took our jackets off and snuggled into the warm cup of thick chocolate, we didn’t want to leave. The place is buzzing constantly, though, with customers waiting for tables or having their churros by the counter.

The chocolate is too thick to drink, but you’d just have to try. There’s no wasting this cup. The churro batter is piped into a hot pan with a machine and comes out really fast, cut to length and served quickly. It’s delightfully fresh, all the time.

It’s Christmas Eve, and there can’t be anything more wonderful to have when the clock strikes midnight. There’s beer, champagne, red wine, yes, and tomorrow morning I’d like to wake up to a homemade, but nonetheless, thick hot chocolate and a mighty comforting, crispy churro. Merry Christmas!

Chocolatería San Ginés
Pasadizo de San Ginés, 11  28013 Madrid, Spain