Churros: where did the Spanish mania for these baked goods come from and where to eat the best ones in Madrid

Churros: where did the Spanish mania for these baked goods come from and where to eat the best ones in Madrid

June 11, 2025

Madrid, the capital of Spain, is not only a place full of monuments, museums and bustling squares. It's also a paradise for lovers of sweets, especially those who love churros - the crispy, fried pastry that has become a symbol of Spanish breakfast and late-night snacking. Churros aren't just food, they're a true Madrid institution that has brought locals and tourists together for generations in a joyful ritual of dipping the golden fingers in thick, hot chocolate. In this article, we'll take you on a journey through Madrid's best churrerias, where tradition mixes with modernity, and each bite tells the story of the city and its people. We'll discover where this sweet phenomenon came from and why Spaniards, and madrileños in particular, have come to love these inconspicuous baked goods so much. Get ready for a culinary adventure full of flavor, aroma and unforgettable experiences in the heart of the Spanish capital.

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History of churros and the oldest churrerias in Madrid

Churros, those crunchy, golden dough sticks, have a long and fascinating history that dates back to the Middle Ages. According to some theories, they were introduced to Spain by the Arabs who ruled the Iberian Peninsula for centuries. Others claim that it was shepherds in the mountainous regions of Spain who invented this easy-to-prepare dish as a substitute for fresh bread. Regardless of their origins, churros have become a permanent part of the culinary culture of Madrid and all of Spain.

One of the oldest and most famous places to taste authentic churros is Chocolatería San Ginés. This establishment, in continuous operation since 1894, has become a true institution in Madrid. Located in the heart of the city, near Puerta del Sol, it attracts tourists and locals alike at any time of the day or night. San Ginés is famous for its perfectly crispy churros and thick, aromatic chocolate. The interior has retained its traditional 19th-century charm with white marble tables and elegant green accents. Prices here are affordable and quality is consistently high, as evidenced by a 4.4 out of 5 rating in customer reviews.

No less fascinating is the Churrería Chocolatería XIX Century, which, as the name suggests, cultivates the traditions of 19th-century Madrid. Located in the Puente de Vallecas neighborhood, it offers not only classic churros, but also thicker porras. The restaurant is well-respected by the local community, as evidenced by its high rating of 4.5, with customers praising the freshness of the products, affordable prices and authentic atmosphere.

Another place with a long tradition is Churrería Chocolateria 1902. This establishment, which has been in operation since the early 20th century, is located in the center of Madrid and offers not only churros, but also various types of chocolate to choose from. While some customers note that the quality can be uneven, most are satisfied with the service and taste of the treats offered.

Also worth mentioning is Churrería Madrid 1883, which, despite its relatively small size, is highly regarded among customers. A rating of 4.5 attests to the consistently high quality of the churros and chocolate served. The restaurant is particularly praised for the freshness of its products and its friendly atmosphere.

These historic churrerias not only offer delicious snacks, but are also living witnesses to the evolution of Madrid's culinary culture. Each of these places has its own unique atmosphere and recipe that attracts both regulars and curious tourists. By visiting them, you can not only satisfy your hunger, but also immerse yourself in an authentic experience of Madrid life.

Modern approach to tradition -. Madrid's contemporary churrerias

While Madrid's historic churrerias cultivate centuries-old traditions, the Spanish capital's contemporary culinary scene is not lagging behind, offering new and innovative approaches to a classic delicacy. One such place is Churrería Santa Ana, which has won the hearts of customers, receiving an impressive 4.7 rating. Located in the city center, this small churreria stands out not only for the quality of its baked goods, but also for its affordable prices.

Customers of Churrería Santa Ana especially praise the lightness and crunchiness of the churros, which are not overly greasy. This place is proof that traditional production methods can be successfully combined with modern culinary techniques to produce a top-quality product. Many visitors insist that these are some of the best churros they have eaten in Madrid.

Another interesting example of a modern approach to tradition is SOCIALTY COFFEE by Chirusa. This place stands out not only for the high quality of its churros and chocolate, but also for its social mission. The restaurant employs refugees, giving them a chance to integrate and start in a new country. Customers appreciate not only the taste of the treats, but also the atmosphere and the owners' commitment to important social issues.

SOCIALTY COFFEE also offers innovative toppings for churros, such as pistachio sauce and dulce de leche, allowing people to experiment with different flavors. Their approach to the traditional treat proves that classic recipes can be successfully adapted to modern tastes and customer expectations.

Also worth mentioning is Chocolat Madrid, which combines tradition with modernity in the heart of the capital. This establishment, despite not boasting a long history, has won the praise of customers thanks to the high quality of its products and its pleasant atmosphere. Customers especially praise the porras, which many say are even better than traditional churros.

Madrid's modern churrerias show that tradition and innovation can be successfully combined. They not only offer classic churros and chocolate, but also experiment with new flavors and additions. Many of these places emphasize the use of high-quality ingredients, often organic or local, which translates into better taste and a healthier end product.

What's more, contemporary churrerias often focus on the design and atmosphere of their establishments, creating spaces that are not only places to eat, but also to meet and relax. Some also offer options for people with special diets, such as gluten-free churros or vegan chocolates, making this traditional snack accessible to a wider audience.

When comparing traditional and modern churrerias, one can see that each has its own unique advantages. While historic establishments offer an authentic experience and a unique atmosphere, modern places often stand out for their innovation and greater variety of offerings. Regardless of your preferred style, one thing is certain - churros lovers will find something to their liking in Madrid, from classic recipes to modern interpretations of this iconic treat.

Churros in Madrid culture - more than just a snack

Churros in Madrid are much more than just a sweet snack - they are part of the city's cultural heritage, a social ritual and an integral part of residents' daily lives. The phenomenon of churros goes far beyond their taste and becomes a platform for social interaction, celebration and the cultivation of traditions.

In the Spanish capital, churros are an integral part of nightlife. After a long night out at clubs or bars, madrileños often end their escapade at one of the many churrerias that are open all night. The Chocolatería San Ginés is a prime example of this phenomenon - open 24 hours a day, it has become an iconic meeting place for night marts and early birds alike.

Churros are also an integral part of Madrid's holidays and festivals. During events such as San Isidro (the feast of Madrid's patron saint) and La Paloma, the streets fill with stands offering freshly fried churros. This is not only an opportunity to enjoy a delicious treat, but also to meet with friends and family, celebrate together and create unforgettable memories.

It is worth noting that churros also play an important role in Madrid's economy. Numerous churrerias, ranging from small, family-run businesses to large, well-known brands, create jobs and contribute to the local economy. Culinary tourism, centered around delicacies such as churros, is becoming an increasingly important sector of Madrid tourism.

Another interesting aspect of churros culture in Madrid is the variety of establishments offering the delicacy. From traditional, historic places like Churrería Chocolatería XIX Century or Churrería Chocolateria 1902, to modern concepts like SOCIALTY COFFEE by Chirusa, each of these places reflects different aspects of Madrid's identity and culture.

Churros have also become a symbol of Madrid hospitality. Many locals proudly take their foreign guests to their favorite churrerias, sharing not only the taste, but also the stories and traditions associated with the delicacy. It's a way to showcase the authentic daily life of the city, away from the main tourist attractions.

Interestingly, the culture of churros is evolving along with the city. Modern churrerias, such as Maestro Churrero and Churrería Manosanta, are innovating traditional recipes, experimenting with new flavors and techniques. This shows that even the most entrenched traditions can evolve and adapt to changing tastes and expectations.

Also worth mentioning is the role of churros in the daily lives of Madriders. For many, it is an integral part of their morning routine - a visit to a local churreria for breakfast is not only an opportunity to eat a delicious meal, but also a moment to meet neighbors, exchange gossip and start the day in a pleasant atmosphere.

In conclusion, churros in Madrid are much more than just food. They are a symbol of the city, an element of cultural identity, a platform for social interaction and an integral part of daily life. From historic establishments to modern concepts, from morning breakfasts to late-night snacks, churros constantly bring people together, creating a unique atmosphere and experience that is the essence of the Madrid lifestyle. For visitors to Madrid, tasting churros at one of the many churrerias is not only a culinary adventure, but also a deep immersion into the culture and spirit of this fascinating city.

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