Chocolatería San Ginés

Above all others, I had one dish that I absolutely, positively, 100% had to consume while in Madrid. Forget the jamon, olives, manchego and patatas, Chocolate con Churros were it. On one particularly late night (or perhaps, I should call it an early morning...) we sought out to find the coveted Chocolatería San Ginés. Established in 1894, San Ginés is Madrid's most well known Chocolatería.

It's like the Cafe du Monde of New Orleans, exchange beignets and coffee for chocolate and churros. While it is only a short walk from the bustle of Puerta del Sol, it sits tucked away in a less than prominent passageway - which is not even labeled on certain maps (ahem, ours) and that's the truth, despite an overwhelming number of sangrias and mojitos consumed. Our general good sense of direction and instincts lead us to Pasadizo san Gines, where neon lights shined as we turned from the dimly list street corner. I was brimming with satisfaction just having located the coveted spot! The thrill of the hunt and the somewhat secretive location only added to its charm.

The interior is decked with green velvet seats and marble tables, matched by green wood paneling and mirrored walls. The smell of melted chocolate mingling with hot oil and fried dough is intoxicating. We placed our orders at the counter and within ten minutes or so, the quintessential Madrid treat was delivered.The Spanish style hot chocolate is thick and bittersweet, dark and strong. Hot, freshly made and deep fried churros are cut to a rigid linear shape, perfect for dunking. An exterior so light and crispy with substantially soft and warm interior, is remarkable when met with rich indulgent chocolate. I'm not sure any plate of tapas put a smile that big on my face. Actually, this might be me in one of my happiest moments ever.Chocolatería San Ginés is a popular destination for Madrileños and tourists a like; the taste, ambiance, location and hours (9am - 6am) give it a unique appeal - a must experience while in Madrid. I'd recommend paying them a visit any time of day, although I tend to favor the hours of 2 or  3am. Pretty much nothing beats chocolate con churros to end a night on the town!