Franchising

Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks making Washington DC debut

Photo: Big Dave's

September 16, 2026

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Big Dave's Cheesesteaks has secured the site for its debut restaurant in the nation's capital, revealing its address at 730 7th St., NW in downtown Washington, D.C.

The location places the fast-casual concept in the Chinatown/Gallery Place corridor, near the Gallery Place-Chinatown Metro station and within walking distance of Capital One Arena and the National Portrait Gallery.

"We wanted our first D.C. location to be somewhere that already has energy," Derrick Hayes, founder and CEO of Big Dave's Cheesesteaks, said in a company press release. "This location puts us in the middle of a neighborhood where people come to eat, work, shop and experience the city. It felt like the right place for Big Dave's to establish itself in Washington."

The location choice aligns with the brand's national franchise strategy, which emphasizes high-visibility, accessible sites capable of building strong ties with local residents and visitors.

"When we look at a new market, the location has to make sense for the business and for the community we are entering," Shawna Snyder, chief operating officer of Big Dave's Cheesesteaks, said in the release. "This location gives us that foundation and creates a strong starting point for our development in the District."

The expansion is spearheaded by franchise group BIG DMV, which is leading the brand's rollout throughout the D.C. area.

The announcement comes during a period of accelerated growth for the brand. Big Dave's Cheesesteaks recently climbed to No. 4 on Fast Casual's Top 100 Movers & Shakers list, driven by rising franchise demand in major markets.

Founded by Hayes in a 700-square-foot gas station shop as a tribute to his late father, Big Dave's has expanded into a national fast-casual contender known for its Philadelphia-style cheesesteaks and community-focused mission.

FranchisingBig Dave's Cheesesteaks

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Big Dave's Cheesesteaks

Inspired to bring his West Philly roots to Georgia, Derrick Hayes launched Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks in honor of his late father. The brand gained buzz when Philly native actress Eve visited the original 700-sq-ft Dunwoody gas-station shop. Today Big Dave’s spans Atlanta, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Orlando venues, a food truck and new SC franchises!

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