A Madrid-born churro institution makes its Manila debut, bringing a century-old dessert tradition to the local dining scene.
It’s official: the churro institution that has defined Madrid’s late-night food culture for over a century has finally arrived in the Philippines. Following its initial announcement in 2025, Chocolatería San Ginés has opened its first Asian flagship at The Podium in Ortigas—bringing with it a legacy that dates back to 1894.
According to a report from ABS-CBN News, the brand’s Manila outpost serves its signature churros paired with a thick, velvety chocolate dip made using its original recipe. Beyond the iconic pairing, the menu expands into tapas, paellas, pastries, desserts, and beverages—offering a fuller Spanish dining experience.
The opening marks a significant moment not just for dessert lovers, but for Manila’s evolving food scene—one that continues to welcome globally recognized culinary names while local diners grow increasingly curious about heritage-driven experiences.
What to expect at San Ginés Manila
At its core, San Ginés is about ritual. In Madrid, it’s synonymous with churros and chocolate at any hour—whether as a morning indulgence or a post-midnight comfort. That same DNA carries into its Manila branch.
The spotlight remains on its famed churros: crisp on the outside, airy on the inside, and designed for dipping into its rich, almost pudding-like chocolate. But the experience doesn’t stop there. Expect a menu that leans into Spanish classics—savory tapas for sharing, paellas layered with flavor, and a pastry selection that rounds out the offering.
The space itself channels a café culture that feels both nostalgic and transportive—bringing a slice of Madrid into the middle of Ortigas.
The story behind the churro: A snack with murky origins
For something so universally loved, the churro’s history is surprisingly complex—and still debated.
One theory traces its roots to China, where Portuguese traders encountered youtiao, a fried dough stick, and brought the concept back to Europe. Over time, Spanish cooks adapted the technique, evolving it into the ridged, star-shaped churros we know today.
Another account points to Spanish shepherds in mountainous regions who created a simple fried dough as a substitute for fresh bread while tending flocks. Easy to prepare over an open fire, the snack eventually made its way into urban cafés—where it became a staple paired with thick hot chocolate.
What remains constant across these origin stories is the churro’s evolution—from a practical, rustic food into a cultural icon tied to comfort, community, and indulgence.
A sweet arrival with cultural weight
San Ginés’ entry into Manila isn’t just about bringing in a famous dessert, but also about introducing a piece of culinary heritage that has stood the test of time. For foodies who value both experience and authenticity, the appeal lies as much in the story as it does in the taste.
In a city where food trends move quickly, San Ginés offers something slower, more rooted—a reminder that some of the most enduring flavors are the ones built on history. And now, that history comes served hot, crisp, and dipped in chocolate—right in the heart of Ortigas.
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