The expansion of Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks into Florida marks a significant development for fans of the iconic Philly cheesesteak in the Sunshine State. This chain, which has garnered attention for its unique origins and high-quality offerings, began its journey in an unexpected location – a gas station, under the name Dave’s Philly Water Ice. It wasn’t until the singer Eve gave the establishment a notable endorsement that it started gaining widespread popularity, eventually evolving into Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks.
This establishment now enjoys a prestigious spot in Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium and has earned a solid reputation among food enthusiasts, especially on platforms like Uber Eats where it boasts a 4.5 out of 5 stars rating at its Forsyth Street location. Customers frequently praise the generous portion sizes and the authenticity of its cheesesteaks, which closely resemble the beloved Philadelphia original.
The decision to bring Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks to Florida is spearheaded by former PepsiCo president Derek Lewis, targeting expansion across multiple counties including Seminole, Volusia, Brevard, Lake, Orange, and Osceola. This move is anticipated to introduce Floridians to another level of cheesesteak excellence, adding to the already existing options like Delcos in Dunedin and Mazzaro’s Italian Market in St. Petersburg.