Franchising

Big Dave's enters South Carolina

Photo: Big Dave's

March 24, 2025

Big Dave's Cheesesteaks opened last week in Columbia, South Carolina, at 942-B Harden St., in Columbia's Five Points. Established in 2014 by West Philadelphia native Derrick Hayes, Bbrand began as a modest venture in a 700-square-foot gas station in Dunwoody, Georgia. The Columbia location, which features an outdoor patio, neon signage and a custom-made Liberty Bell and cheesesteak art installation, is near Philly Pretzel Factory, which recently announced a partnership with Big Dave's Cheesesteaks to provide the chain with hand-twisted soft pretzels.

Named in honor of Hayes' late father, Big Dave's Cheesesteaks gained acclaim for its authentic cheesesteaks, especially after a visit from Philadelphia-born actress and rapper Eve, who praised the establishment on social media. This endorsement propelled Big Dave's into the spotlight, leading to rapid expansion.

Last year, Big Dave's Cheesesteaks opened its first out-of-state corporate location in Charlotte at 8552 University City Blvd., in Charlotte, North Carolina. locations are in Atlanta and Orlando at Kia Center and Camping World.