Churros and chocolate in Madrid: 3 iconic spots near Gran Vía

Churros and chocolate are a Madrid staple, and you can’t leave the city without trying them. Luckily, there are several excellent spots near Gran Vía to enjoy this treat.

Where can you find the best churros and chocolate near Gran Vía?

We've mapped out three solid spots for proper churros and chocolate, all under a 10-minute walk from our door. They're different, so here's the breakdown on what to order and what to expect at each one.

1. San Ginés: the classic experience

San Ginés has been around since 1894, so they know what they're doing. It's the most famous one for a reason. You'll find it at Pasadizo de San Ginés, 5, about a 7-minute walk from us. The churros are light, the chocolate is thick enough to stand a spoon in, and you'll get 6 churros plus chocolate for about €5. There will be a queue, especially on weekends. Don't worry, it moves fast.

The interior of San Ginés is a throwback to old Madrid, with green and white tiles and mirrored walls. It’s open 24/7, making it a favorite for night owls and early risers alike. If you’re visiting during peak hours, consider taking your churros to go and enjoying them in nearby Plaza Mayor, just a short walk away.

San Ginés also offers a small selection of other pastries, such as 'napolitanas' (chocolate-filled puff pastries) and 'ensaimadas', which pair wonderfully with their signature chocolate. If you're a fan of souvenirs, their shop sells tins of their famous chocolate mix, so you can recreate the experience at home.

If you only have time for one churro stop and want the classic Madrid photo, this is it. It's the benchmark.

2. Valor: traditional with a modern twist

Valor is a 5-minute walk to Postigo de San Martín, 7. Their whole thing is the chocolate itself—it's darker and more intense. You can get the standard churros or ask for 'porras', which are thicker and doughier. A portion runs about €5.50. Go here if the quality of the chocolate is your main priority.

Valor also offers a variety of chocolate options, including white chocolate and milk chocolate, as well as seasonal specials like hazelnut or orange-infused chocolate. If you’re not in the mood for churros, try their chocolate fondue with fresh fruit or one of their decadent chocolate cakes. They also have a small shop where you can buy chocolate bars and other treats to take home.

The café has a modern yet cozy ambiance, with comfortable seating and a menu that extends beyond sweets. They serve savory options like sandwiches and salads, making it a good spot for a light lunch followed by dessert. Their hot chocolate is also available in a sugar-free version, catering to those with dietary restrictions.

3. Churrería 1902: family tradition

This one's at Calle San Martín, 2, an 8-minute walk. It's a family-run spot that's been going since, you guessed it, 1902. The chocolate isn't as thick as at San Ginés, but it's just as good. The main advantage? You're more likely to skip the massive queues you'll find elsewhere. It's also slightly cheaper at around €4.50 a portion.

Churrería 1902 is particularly popular with locals, which is always a good sign. They also serve a variety of other traditional Spanish pastries, like 'rosquillas' and 'torrijas', depending on the season. The atmosphere is cozy and unpretentious, making it a great spot for a relaxed snack. If you’re visiting with a group, their larger portions are perfect for sharing.

For those interested in history, Churrería 1902 has a display of old photographs and memorabilia that tell the story of the family business. They also offer a loyalty card for frequent visitors, which can earn you discounts on future visits. It’s a great way to support a local, family-run establishment while indulging in a delicious treat.

When’s the best time to enjoy churros and chocolate?

People think of churros for breakfast, but here we eat them whenever. It works as an afternoon pick-me-up or, more importantly, after a night out. Guests ask us this every week. If you want to avoid the crowds, hit these places on a weekday morning or around 4 PM, before the after-work rush.

If you’re visiting Madrid during winter, churros and chocolate are especially comforting on a chilly morning. In summer, many places offer iced chocolate as an alternative to the traditional hot version, which pairs surprisingly well with the crispy churros. For the ultimate local experience, try them during Madrid’s festivals, like San Isidro or La Paloma, when churros are a staple street food.

Another great time to enjoy churros is during Madrid’s New Year’s celebrations. Many locals make it a tradition to end their night with churros and chocolate after the clock strikes midnight. It’s a delicious way to start the year and soak in the festive atmosphere of the city.

Is it worth trying other places?

Look, these are the three big names near us, and they're solid choices. But every neighbourhood has its own local churrería, and they're often just as good, if not better. If you're walking around Malasaña or Lavapiés and see a small, no-frills place with a line of locals, go in. That's usually the best sign.

In Malasaña, for example, you’ll find spots like La Antigua Churrería, which has been serving churros since 1913. Over in Lavapiés, smaller family-run churrerías often offer unique twists, like churros filled with cream or dulce de leche. Exploring these neighborhoods can lead to delightful surprises, and you’ll often pay less than at the more famous spots near Gran Vía.

If you’re venturing further out, consider visiting Chocolatería Los Artesanos 1902 in the Chamberí district. Known for their artisanal approach, they offer gluten-free churros, making it an inclusive option for those with dietary restrictions. It’s a bit of a trek from Gran Vía, but the quality and care put into their offerings make it worth the journey.