Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks began in a 700-square-foot gas station in Dunwoody, Georgia, serving cheesesteaks inspired by founder Derrick Hayes’ West Philadelphia roots.
The Atlanta-born restaurant company has since expanded across multiple states and is building a franchise system designed to support growth in markets across the country.
Hayes grew up in West Philadelphia, where he learned to cook alongside his grandfather. After relocating to Atlanta, he opened the restaurant that would become Big Dave’s, named in honor of his late father. The concept developed a following around West Philadelphia-style cheesesteaks and a menu that now includes beef, chicken and salmon cheesesteaks, cheesesteak egg rolls, fries and other items…