News Summary
Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks is set to open its first location in Columbia on March 8, 2025. Founded by Derrick Hayes in 2014, this franchise has gained immense popularity, originating from Georgia and expanding its reach beyond state lines. The Columbia location will feature a variety of cheesesteak options, with a special offer for the first 100 customers. As the brand continues to grow, it promises to deliver the same quality and flavors that have made it a beloved food destination.
Columbia Welcomes Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks!
Exciting news for all food lovers in Columbia! The city is set to welcome its very first Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks location, opening its doors on March 8, 2025. Located at 942 Harden Street, this new eatery promises to serve up delicious cheesesteaks that are sure to make your taste buds dance with joy.
A Little Background
Founded in 2014 by West Philadelphia native Derrick Hayes, Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks started as a small operation in a cozy 700-square-foot gas station in Dunwoody, Georgia. It quickly grew into a well-loved brand, named in memory of Hayes’ late father, who went by the affectionate moniker Big Dave. The restaurant’s unique flavors and heartfelt backstory have paved the way for its impressive success.
The brand’s popularity surged after a fun shout-out from actress and rapper Eve on social media, which helped spread the word about its mouthwatering offerings. Fast forward to today, and Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks is now a household name, with multiple locations across Atlanta, including spots in the iconic Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Exciting Expansion
In 2024, the first Big Dave’s location opened outside of Georgia in Charlotte, marking the beginning of its journey beyond state lines. Now, Columbia is next on the list! Big Dave’s has gained accolades, including spots on the “Top 10 Best Sandwiches” list by World Food Champions and recognition for Hayes himself as one of Forbes’ Next 1000 entrepreneurs to watch in 2021.
Derrick Hayes has proven his entrepreneurial prowess, transforming Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks into a multimillion-dollar enterprise, earning him a spot on Black Enterprise’s prestigious 40 Under 40 List in 2023. The restaurant has also teamed up with Philly Pretzel Factory to bring freshly baked soft pretzels to the menu—perfect for pairing with those incredible cheesesteaks!
Meet the Columbia Franchise Team
The new Columbia franchise is operated by Marc Brown, who happens to be related to the founder, and Frank Williams III. Brown, a lifelong fan of Big Dave’s, is super excited about introducing the vibrant menus to Columbia diners. He shares the passion for making sure every cheesesteak is served with the love and quality that customers expect from the brand and can’t wait for everyone to dive into the signature flavors.
Columbia will feature a variety of cheesesteak options, including the classic Dave’s Way Cheesesteak, which showcases the hallmark taste that has garnered fans far and wide. With the opening date just around the corner, first-time visitors can look forward to being among the very first to indulge in these culinary delights.
Special Opening Day Offer
To make this event even more unforgettable, the first 100 customers on opening day will receive a “special gift”—what a fantastic incentive to get there early! The restaurant will operate daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., making it convenient for lunch breaks or late-night cravings.
As Hayes noted, South Carolina has been on the radar for expansion since the very beginning, and the Five Points location is just the start of the franchise’s plans, which include up to five Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks locations in South Carolina. There’s a buzz of excitement in the air in Columbia as folks await this new hotspot to unfold!
Final Thoughts
If you’re in Columbia or planning a visit soon, mark your calendars for March 8, 2025. Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks is ready to bring scrumptious flavors, heartfelt service, and an unforgettable experience to the city. So gather your friends and family and get ready to satisfy those cheesesteak cravings at Columbia’s newest culinary gem!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks Opens in Columbia, SC
Additional Resources
- Cola Today: Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks in Five Points
- The State: Local News on Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks
- Columbia Business Report: Cheesesteaks Arrival in Columbia
- Eat This: Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks Opening Locations
- Post and Courier: Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks Opening in Columbia
- Wikipedia: Cheesesteak
- Google Search: Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks
- Google Scholar: Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cheesesteak
- Google News: Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks
Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
