Have you ever dreamed of wandering through the cobblestone streets of Madrid in search of the perfect midnight snack? You can officially put your passport away because the gold standard of Spanish treats is right here in the heart of Ortigas. Chocolatería San Ginés officially opened its Asian flagship at The Podium, bringing over 130 years of sweet, chocolatey history to our local food scene.
A Century of Tradition in Every Bite
Since its start in 1894, San Ginés has been a Madrid institution, serving as the ultimate destination for locals and travelers alike.
Now, that same legacy is being recreated for Manila. This isn’t just another dessert shop; it is a refined yet vibrant café experience.
The star of the show is, of course, the Churros con Chocolate. These aren’t your average mall snacks. We are talking about churros that are freshly made to be perfectly crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. They are served with the brand’s world-famous Signature Hot Chocolate, a rich, velvety, and deeply comforting recipe that hasn’t changed for over 132 years. Is there anything more satisfying than that first dip?
Beyond the Chocolate: A Full Spanish Feast
While the churros might get you through the door, the rest of the menu will keep you in your seat. San Ginés Manila is going beyond the sweets to offer a curated selection of Spanish tapas. Whether you are looking for a solo snack or a spread to share with the squad, these dishes celebrate bold flavors and time-honored techniques.
If you are coming in with a serious appetite, you have to try their paellas. From seafood-heavy variations to savory meat options, these are built on rich, layered flavors and premium ingredients.
It’s the kind of communal dining that Filipinos love, making it a perfect destination for family Sundays or catching up with friends over a shared pan of rice.
A Coffee Culture Worth Staying For
Need a caffeine fix? The flagship also boasts a specialty coffee program designed to pair perfectly with both their sweet churros and savory tapas. Whether you’re an espresso purist or someone who loves a milky latte, the attention to detail here matches the high standards of their chocolate. It’s the kind of place where you can linger over a cup and feel the pulse of Madrid’s vibrant café culture right in the heart of Manila.
A New Hub for Manila’s Flavor Seekers
Manila has always had a deep appreciation for Spanish heritage, but San Ginés brings a level of prestige and history that is hard to match. It isn’t just another café; it is a landmark destination bringing timeless flavors closer to home.
The experience continues with a curated selection of specialty coffees, designed to complement both the sweet and savory sides of the menu.
The menu goes beyond churros. A thoughtfully curated selection of Spanish tapas takes the spotlight, ideal for sharing with loved ones or enjoying solo.
Guests can expect classic favorites that celebrate bold flavors and time-honored techniques, all served with a casual yet refined approach to dining reminiscent of the café culture that has defined San Ginés for generations.
And here is an insider tip: this is just the beginning. The brand has already teased new flavors and offerings in the works, alongside plans to open more San Ginés locations across Manila in the future. Is your neighborhood next on the list?
San Ginés stands out by keeping things simple and authentic. It is the perfect destination for everything from a first date to a catch-up session with your barkada. The atmosphere is refined yet vibrant, capturing that European café vibe without the pretension.
Your Table is Ready
The wait is over and the chocolate is pouring. You can find San Ginés on the Ground Floor of The Podium, ready to serve you a piece of Madrid’s culinary soul.
If you have been looking for an excuse to visit SM Podium, this is it. Whether you are there for the iconic chocolate dip or a full Spanish feast, San Ginés is set to be your new favorite hangout.
