Hamburg's Chain Restaurants

After a long day of shopping or for a break between museums, stop for a delicious as well as economical bite at one of these chain restaurants.

Block House. Founder Eugen Block opened the first Block House steak house in Hamburg in 1968 after falling in love with the concept in San Francisco. Today, there are 14 outlets in Hamburg and dozens more in the rest of Germany and Spain and Portugal. The good-size steaks come with a baked potato or fries, salad, and garlic bread. www.block-house.de.

Campus Suite. This northern German chain started on a university campus in Kiel. The restaurant, with 14 outposts in Hamburg, serves reasonably priced Asian and pasta dishes, couscous, sandwiches, muffins, croissants, and coffee drinks. Beer, wine, and champagne are also available. www.campussuite.de.

Schweinske. This is Germany's answer to T.G.I. Friday's. Crowds turn out for after-work drink specials and German comfort food, like schnitzel and currywurst. This Hamburg creation has 33 outlets in the city and more throughout the rest of the country. www.schweinske.com.

Vapiano. This hugely popular Italian restaurant was born in downtown Hamburg; there are three in central locations, and many more scattered around Germany and the world. To customize your dish, you first choose the type of pasta or pizza you want, then select the toppings, sauces, and ingredients to go with it. www.vapiano.com.