San Ginés at The Podium: Madrid’s Iconic Churros and Chocolate Arrive in the Philippines
A beloved Madrid institution has made its way to Manila, bringing more than a century of tradition, family recipes, and authentic Spanish flavors to The Podium in Ortigas. From freshly fried churros dipped in thick hot chocolate to sizzling tapas and paella made for sharing, Chocolatería San Ginés Manila offers diners a taste of Spain without leaving the city.
IMAGE from San Ginés
San Ginés first opened in Madrid in 1894 and has remained open every single day since. Over the past 132 years, it has grown into one of Spain’s most iconic dining destinations—a familiar late-night stop for Madrileños, a must-visit for travelers, and a place closely associated with the timeless pairing of churros and hot chocolate.
IMAGE from San Ginés
Its Manila branch, which opened on May 1, 2026, marks the brand’s first flagship location in Asia and its first branch outside Europe and the United States. Located on the ground floor of SM The Podium, the restaurant was introduced to the Philippines by CEO Shaan Chainani and his team under Emperia Ventures.
IMAGE from San Ginés
From the beginning, the goal was to preserve the San Ginés experience as faithfully as possible. The restaurant follows the same recipes, uses the same key ingredients, and maintains the same standards established by the original Madrid location. More branches are also expected to open across the Philippines in the future.
What to Order at Chocolatería San Ginés Manila
A first visit should begin with the restaurant’s signature Churros con Chocolate. The order comes with six churros fried upon request at the Churro Theater, an open kitchen window where guests can watch each batch being prepared.
IMAGE from San Ginés
The churro dough and Signature Hot Chocolate are both based on family heirloom recipes dating back to 1894. Unlike conventionally sweet chocolate drinks, the San Ginés version is thick, dark, and less sugary, allowing the freshly fried churros to remain the highlight with every dip.
Churros con Chocolate (Php 390) / IMAGE from San Ginés
Beyond its famous churros, the Manila flagship offers a selection of savory Spanish dishes. Among its most frequently ordered tapas is the Gambas al Ajillo, featuring prawns served in a terracotta cazuela with Spanish olive oil, four-clove garlic, and chili. It arrives at the table still sizzling, releasing the inviting aroma of garlic and olive oil.
Gambas al Ajillo (Php 650) / IMAGE from San Ginés
For groups, the Paella Mariscos serves two to three diners. Prepared following the Valencia tradition, the dish combines bomba rice imported from Spain with homemade seafood caldo, mussels, clams, and shrimp. Its slow and patient preparation results in a hearty seafood rice dish suitable for sharing at the center of the table.
Paella Mariscos (Php 1,500) / IMAGE from San Ginés
Another savory option is the Chistorra Frita, made with slender Basque sausage imported directly from Navarra, Spain. Flash-fried before serving, the sausage offers a smoky and deeply savory flavor. As proper chistorra remains relatively uncommon in Manila, the dish gives diners an opportunity to sample an authentic Spanish specialty.
Chistorra Frita (Php 480) / IMAGE from San Ginés
Those visiting for breakfast or brunch may also try the Golden Butter Pancakes (Php 450). Available from the restaurant’s 8:00 a.m. opening, the pancakes have gained attention on TikTok for their fluffy texture, gooey center, and lightly crisp exterior.
Golden Butter Pancakes (Php 450) / IMAGE from San Ginés
Family Recipes Preserved Since 1894
Authenticity remains central to the San Ginés experience. Every dish served at the Manila branch is rooted in family heirloom recipes developed in Madrid.
IMAGE from San Ginés
Rather than adapting or simplifying the original preparations for the local market, the restaurant follows the established recipes and methods as closely as possible. Key ingredients—including the chocolate blend, bomba rice, Spanish olive oil, and mejillones—are imported directly from Spain to maintain the brand’s standards.
IMAGE from San Ginés
This commitment allows diners at The Podium to enjoy the same flavors that guests have experienced near Madrid’s Puerta del Sol since 1894.
A Casual Spanish Dining Space in Ortigas
San Ginés has a capacity of 60 guests and operates exclusively on a walk-in basis, with no reservations required. During busy periods, the usual waiting time is approximately 10 minutes.
IMAGE from San Ginés
Guests looking for something quick may order coffee, pastries, and churros for takeaway. The restaurant is also fully cashless and accepts card payments, GCash, Maya, and QRPh.
Chocolatería San Ginés Manila is located on the ground floor of SM The Podium in Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City. It is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Monday to Sunday. Updates may be found through @sanginesph on Instagram and Facebook.
