There’s a certain kind of magic that happens when heritage crosses oceans, and in 2026, Manila will be the stage for one of Europe’s most iconic culinary traditions. Chocolatería San Ginés, the legendary Madrid café known for its golden churros and decadent hot chocolate, is planting roots in the Philippines with its first-ever flagship in Asia.
Founded in 1894 in a narrow passage between Puerta del Sol and Teatro Real, San Ginés has become a cultural icon in Spain, serving everyone from royalty and football legends to pop stars. In a move that blends culinary heritage with global expansion, their first Asia flagship will be opened right in the heart of Manila by February 2026.
The Manila branch promises more than just the famed churros con chocolate: crispy golden sticks paired with spoon-thick hot chocolate. It will feature a full Spanish-style cafeteria, offering their signature menu that includes paella, tapas, tortilla, and brunch favorites like pan con tomate with jamón, chorizo rice bowls, and San Ginés’ signature chocolate cake. The interiors will echo the warmth of Madrid’s tiled corridors, designed to evoke the brand’s rich legacy and inviting atmosphere.
Pedro Trapote, Founder of San Ginés, describes the expansion as “sharing a piece of Madrid’s cultural soul with Manila.” With existing branches in Lisbon, Miami, Austin, and Buenos Aires, this marks a major milestone for the brand and a delicious and sweet win for Asia’s food scene.
While the exact location is still under wraps, you can visit Chocolatería San Ginés’ official website and follow them on Instagram and Facebook for a sneak peek of what to expect and more updates to come.
Source: The Beat Asia
