Best Churros In Madrid:
A Must-Try Guide
EVER WONDERED WHERE TO FIND THE BEST CHURROS IN MADRID?
By Liam Mulligan | Published on September 5, 2024 |Modified on September 5, 2024
Ah, churros! I cannot go to Spain without having some of these sweet delights. Regular readers of the blog will know I am a foodie with a sweet tooth and churros are one of my favourite Spanish foods.
This fried dough snack, made by piping choux pastry into hot oil has become a symbol of Spanish cuisine. Eaten for breakfast with coffee or most popularly with chocolate as an afternoon snack, you cannot go to Madrid and not indulge yourself. It’s a cultural experience!
As the capital of Spain, Madrid has a rich tradition of churros with some of the most famous churros cafés (known as churrerías in Spanish) in the whole of Spain. Join me as I provide you with some of the history and provide you with the best places to try these sugary indulgences.

History of Churros in Madrid
The origins of churros are a little unclear but there are a couple of widely accepted theories about where they come from. One theory suggests that they were brought back to the Iberian Peninsula by the Portuguese from China. The Chinese dish youtiao looks very similar to the Spanish churro.
Another theory suggests they were made by Spanish shepherds. Being out in the fields, the shepherds didn’t have access to freshly baked goods. Churro paste is easy to make and so shepherds would fry the mixture in an open fire.
Since then churros have become an icon of Spanish culture and cuisine. You will find them across the globe in Spanish-speaking countries having been exported there during the Age of Discovery.
In Madrid, churros hold a significant place in the culture, representing more than just a sweet treat. They are a symbol of both tradition and social connection. They are not just a snack but are a part of daily life, enjoyed during breakfast or at late-night gatherings.

Whilst initially a simple street snack, churros have now developed into a beloved tradition. As Madrid modernised, churros became intertwined with the city’s café culture in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Many churrerías sprung up and quickly became the go-to place for social gatherings. Today, the act of sharing churros with a cup of thick hot chocolate is a cherished ritual amongst locals and one every visitor should try on their trip to Madrid!
Top Places to Enjoy Churros in Madrid
If you’re looking to try churros whilst in Madrid, you’re in luck. The city has an abundance of fantastic places to try churros. Keep reading to find out the best spots for churros in Madrid.
Chocolatería San Ginés
Chocolatería San Ginés is renowned as the best place for churros in Madrid, and arguably in all of Spain. Established in 1894, this historic café is located in a charming alley near Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor. The vintage décor, featuring green velvet seating and mirrors, creates an elegant atmosphere that reflects over a century of tradition.
The café offers delectable churros that are perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, paired with a rich, silky hot chocolate that is thick and indulgent. For the best experience, try dipping the churros into the hot chocolate to fully enjoy the combination of textures and flavours.
Chocolatería San Ginés is open 24 hours a day, but to avoid long queues, it’s best to visit early in the morning or late at night. While the classic churros and hot chocolate are a must-try, consider sampling their chocolate croissants or seasonal pastries for a delightful treat.
San Ginés is without doubt an unmissable spot on a trip to Madrid.
Pro Tip – If you’re in a rush, you can enjoy your churros and chocolate at the counter rather than waiting for a table.

Chocolatería Valor
Chocolatería Valor founded in 1881, is a renowned name in Spain with several cafés across the country. I have been to Valor cafés in Madrid, Barcelona, Gijón, and Murcia. Each location was great offering a consistently excellent experience.
At Valor, you can expect a premium experience with their signature crisp and golden churros served alongside velvety hot chocolate. The hot chocolate is so rich and smooth that it drips luxuriously off the churros.
Valor takes pride in offering a diverse selection of chocolates, including gluten-free and sugar-free options, catering to various dietary needs. Their menu also features an array of cakes and brunch items, making it an ideal spot for groups where not everyone might be in the mood for churros.
For the best experience, visit the Valor café just off Plaza del Callao, the most central location in Madrid. To avoid peak crowds, consider visiting during mid-morning or mid-afternoon when the café is less busy.
With its elegant setting and premium offerings, Chocolatería Valor is a top choice for a delightful chocolate and churros experience in Madrid.
Pro Tip – Try their signature hot chocolate with a slice of one of their cakes for a perfect pairing.
Los Artesanos 1902
Los Artesanos 1902 is a must-visit spot for anyone searching for authentic Madrid churros. Founded in 1902, this renowned churrería has built a stellar reputation over more than a century for its traditional Spanish churros.
Freshly made each day, the churros at Los Artesanos strike the perfect balance between a crispy exterior and a soft, tender interior. They are best enjoyed dipped in the rich, thick chocolate sauce that is the café’s signature.
Beyond its delicious offerings, Los Artesanos 1902 is known for its warm and friendly atmosphere, making every visit a pleasant experience. Conveniently located in the heart of Madrid near Plaza de Callao, this churrería is a favourite among both locals and tourists.
Its commitment to high-quality ingredients and traditional recipes makes it an essential stop on any churros tour of Madrid.
Pro Tip – Pair your churros with a café con leche for the ultimate Spanish treat.

El Riojano
El Riojano is one of the best places in Madrid to try churros and other pastries. Located close to Puerta del Sol, El Riojano was established in 1855 by Dámaso de la Maza, a pastry chef to the Spanish royal family. If it’s good enough for royalty, it must be good!
The pastry shop has retained its vintage feel with marble floors and ornate detailing. It is in a central spot on Calle Mayor, close to Plaza Mayor, making it the ideal place to stop for breakfast.
Whilst the shop is primarily known for its Spanish pastries, it also offers churros, served with rich hot chocolate for dipping. Enjoying churros in such a historic pastry shop is the perfect way to experience this Spanish treat.
Pro Tip – Try some of El Riojano’s famous rosquillas or Napolitanas alongside your churros.
La Antigua
For those seeking an authentic local experience, La Antigua is a must-visit. This family-run establishment, founded in 1913, is renowned for serving some of the finest churros in Madrid.
Conveniently located on Calle de Apodaca between the Bilbao and Tribunal metro stops, La Antigua’s old-world charm and crispy, golden churros transport you to another era.
Pair your churros with La Antigua’s thick, velvety hot chocolate for the perfect combination. If churros aren’t what you’re craving (though I might question that!), La Antigua also offers a variety of other pastries and breakfast items.
With its nostalgic atmosphere and top-notch churros, La Antigua deserves a spot on everyone’s must-visit list in Madrid.
Pro Tip – Visit La Antigua in the late afternoon when the churros are freshly made for the evening rush—perfect for an authentic Madrid
snack before dinner.
Chocolat Madrid
Chocolat Madrid is another popular spot in the Spanish capital known for its exceptional churros and chocolate. Located in the historic Huertas neighbourhood, it has become a favourite for locals and tourists.
Its main attraction is its thick, rich and velvety hot chocolate. Pair it with some crispy churros and you’ve got the quintessential Spanish experience. The atmosphere is welcoming and the charming décor reflects Madrid’s café culture.
For those not wanting to try churros, there are a variety of pastries and light snacks. It is close to the Museo del Prado, making it the perfect place to stop off for a morning or afternoon treat.
It is a must-visit for anyone seeking the best churros in Madrid.
Pro Tip – If you’re looking for something different, try
their porras—a larger, fluffier version of churros that’s equally delicious.

How to Enjoy Churros Like a Local
If you’re in Madrid and trying churros, you want the true local experience. Here are my top tips on eating churros like a local.
- Dip, don’t dunk: Gently dip the churro into a cup of thick hot chocolate, just enough to cover it without soaking.
- Eat fresh: Churros are at their best when they are crispy and fresh from the fryer.
- Pairing: Chocolate is the obvious and most traditional choice but they also go well with coffee or on their own with some sugar.
- Morning or Late-Night Treat: Churros are often enjoyed for breakfast or as a late-night snack. You’ll spot locals going for churros after a night out.
FAQs
Still not quite found what you’re looking for? Check out my answers to these frequently asked questions.
Does Madrid Have Churros?
Yes, Madrid does have churros. With an amazing variety of places to try in the city, you could even have churros every day! If you’re in Madrid for the first time, I recommend heading to Chocolatería San Ginés for an iconic experience.
Where in Spain is Famous For Churros?
In Spain, churros are popular all over the country. As you can see from this list, Madrid is home to some of the most iconic churros spots in all of Spain. Chocolatería San Ginés is arguably the most famous churros café in the country.

How To Eat Churros in Spain?
Churros are most commonly eaten with a cup of thick, hot chocolate. Dip your churro gently into the cup of hot chocolate, enough to coat it without soaking. Churros are best enjoyed fresh from the fryer.
Hot chocolate is the most common accompaniment, but churros can also be eaten with coffee or on their own with sugar. Churros are most commonly eaten for breakfast or as a late-night snack.
How Much Does Churros Con Chocolate Cost In Spain?
Churros tend to cost between €4 to €7 for a combination of churros con chocolate. Expect to pay more in more touristy areas or high-end establishments. However, it is a relatively affordable snack throughout Spain.

Final Thoughts: Best Churros in Madrid
When visiting Madrid, indulging in churros is a must. With this guide, you’ll find a range of top spots across the city, from the iconic San Ginés to charming, lesser-known cafés like Chocolat Madrid.
Each café offers its unique twist on this classic treat, so I recommend trying as many as you can. Everyone’s tastes vary, so explore and discover your personal favourite. Who knows—you might even stumble upon a hidden gem that becomes your go-to churros spot!
About Me

My name is Liam and I’m the owner and author of ‘Travels Around Spain’. I have been obsessed with Spain ever since my first visit 35 years ago. I am on a mission to visit and discover every part of this beautiful country and share all my hints and tips with you all.
Read more about my journey by clicking here.