The Big Dave's Difference
Why Big Dave's Cheesesteaks
Authentic Philly roots. Halal ingredients. Premium quality with no shortcuts. And a founder story that turned a tribute into a national movement. This is why guests choose Big Dave's.
Philly
Authentic Roots
Halal
Beef & Chicken
#4
Fast Casual Movers & Shakers
Next 1000
Forbes Recognition
Authentic Philly Roots
Big Dave's wasn't dreamed up in a boardroom. Founder Derrick Hayes was born and raised in West Philadelphia, learning to cook in his grandfather's kitchen. When he moved to Atlanta and couldn't find a cheesesteak worthy of home, he built his own — and never strayed from the real thing.
We use authentic Amoroso's rolls from Philadelphia, partner with Philly's Best Steak Company, and hand-chop and griddle every steak to order. It's the genuine article, served the way Philly intended.
Halal And Premium Ingredients
Quality is non-negotiable. Our beef and chicken are 100% halal, so more guests can share the experience, and we load every 'Dave's Way' cheesesteak with onions, sweet peppers, banana peppers, mushrooms, and all three cheeses.
From wild-caught salmon to fresh-cut Philly fries and hand-rolled egg rolls, we don't cut corners — we cut steak. That commitment to premium ingredients is what keeps fans coming back.
More Than Cheesesteaks — A Movement
Big Dave's is a story people root for. From a 700-square-foot gas station to Mercedes-Benz Stadium, franchises across the Southeast, and national headlines, the brand has been featured by Forbes, Good Morning America, Black Enterprise, and more, and named to the Forbes Next 1000.
Derrick Hayes has also built a legacy of giving back — through the David & Derrick Hayes Foundation and College Fund, and Square 1: The Liife Experience with his wife Pinky Cole Hayes. When you choose Big Dave's, you're supporting purpose, perseverance, and authentic leadership.
The Big Dave's Promise
Made Fresh To Order
Every cheesesteak is hand-chopped and griddled the moment you order — never pre-cooked or pre-assembled.
Real Amoroso's Rolls
We ship the same Philadelphia bakery rolls that define an authentic Philly cheesesteak.
100% Halal
Halal beef and chicken so more guests can enjoy a true taste of Philly with confidence.
Nationally Recognized
#4 on the 2026 Fast Casual Top 100 Movers & Shakers and featured across national media.
Stadium-Trusted
Served inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the Georgia World Congress Center, and Orlando venues.
Rooted In Community
A founder-led brand giving back through scholarships, foundations, and wellness initiatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Big Dave's Cheesesteaks different?
Big Dave's is built on authenticity. Founder Derrick Hayes brought his West Philly roots to Atlanta and refused to cut corners — hand-chopped halal beef and chicken, all three cheeses, and real Amoroso's rolls from Philadelphia, made fresh to order every time.
Who founded Big Dave's Cheesesteaks?
Big Dave's was founded by Derrick Hayes, a West Philadelphia native who started the brand in a 700-square-foot Atlanta gas station and grew it into one of the nation's fastest-growing restaurant brands, named for his late father.
Is Big Dave's halal?
Yes. Our beef and chicken are 100% halal, so more guests can enjoy an authentic Philly cheesesteak with confidence.
Why is Big Dave's so popular?
Quality, authenticity, and heart. Big Dave's has earned national recognition — featured by Forbes, Good Morning America, and more, ranked #4 on the 2026 Fast Casual Top 100 Movers & Shakers, and beloved for serving a real Philly cheesesteak with a story people root for.
Taste The Difference For Yourself
Order online and find out why Big Dave's has become a national favorite.