Building a Brand with Heart: The Big Dave's Cheesesteaks Story

Welcome to another blog post expanding on a recent episode of The Hospitality Hangout! In this post, we're diving deep into the inspiring story of Big Dave's Cheesesteaks, a Philly-inspired brand that has taken Atlanta by storm. We'll explore how founder Derrick Hayes built this successful restaurant, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, community engagement, and a genuine passion for hospitality. From its humble beginnings to national recognition, Big Dave's is a testament to hard work and a commitment to treating employees like family. We recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Derrick on the podcast. You can listen to the full episode here: Grill. Grind. Greatness. The Derrick Hayes Hustler Story. Now, let's dig into the details that make Big Dave's Cheesesteaks such a special brand.

Introduction: From the Streets to Success - The Big Dave's Cheesesteaks Story

Every great business has a story, a narrative that resonates with its customers and employees alike. The story of Big Dave's Cheesesteaks is one of resilience, determination, and a deep-rooted connection to community. Derrick Hayes, the founder, didn't just create a restaurant; he built a brand with heart, a place where customers feel like family and employees are valued. This journey, from humble beginnings to a thriving business with multiple locations and national media attention, is a powerful example of what can be achieved with passion and purpose. We'll uncover the pivotal moments, the challenges overcome, and the unwavering principles that have guided Big Dave's success.

The Genesis of Big Dave's: A Sandwich with a Purpose

The story of Big Dave's Cheesesteaks begins with a simple craving and a desire to bring a taste of Philadelphia to Atlanta. Derrick Hayes, originally from West Philadelphia, noticed a lack of authentic cheesesteaks in the city. He missed the taste of home and saw an opportunity to fill a void in the market. More than just satisfying his own cravings, Derrick envisioned a business that could provide for his family and create opportunities for others in his community. His first venture was a small takeout spot, a far cry from the thriving chain it is today. But even in those early days, the focus was on quality ingredients, authentic recipes, and a genuine commitment to customer satisfaction.

The name itself, "Big Dave's," pays homage to a close friend and mentor who played a significant role in Derrick's life. This personal connection underscores the importance of relationships and the power of mentorship in shaping one's path. Big Dave's isn't just about cheesesteaks; it's about honoring those who have supported you along the way. It's a testament to how personal stories and relationships can be woven into the fabric of a brand, creating a unique and meaningful identity.

Initially, funding was a challenge. Derrick relied on his own savings, support from family, and a relentless hustle to get the business off the ground. He faced skepticism and doubters, but his unwavering belief in his vision kept him going. He knew that if he could deliver a truly authentic Philly cheesesteak experience, people would come. He focused on creating a high-quality product, building relationships with his customers, and consistently delivering exceptional service. This early commitment to excellence laid the foundation for the brand's future success.

Authenticity and Community: The Heart of the Brand

What truly sets Big Dave's Cheesesteaks apart is its commitment to authenticity and community engagement. Derrick didn't just want to sell cheesesteaks; he wanted to recreate the experience of being in a Philadelphia corner store. He imported ingredients directly from Philly, ensuring that every sandwich tasted like home. He insisted on using Amoroso's rolls, a staple of Philadelphia cheesesteaks, and sourcing his meat from reputable suppliers known for their quality.

But authenticity goes beyond just ingredients. It's about creating a genuine connection with customers and fostering a sense of community. Big Dave's actively engages with the local community through charitable initiatives, sponsorships, and events. They regularly give back to schools, churches, and other organizations, demonstrating a commitment to making a positive impact. This genuine desire to serve the community has helped Big Dave's build a loyal following and establish itself as a pillar of the Atlanta community.

The restaurant's atmosphere is another key element of its appeal. The décor, the music, and the overall vibe are all designed to evoke the feeling of being in a traditional Philly cheesesteak shop. Customers often comment on the friendly staff and the welcoming atmosphere, noting that it feels like a family-run business. This sense of connection and belonging is what keeps people coming back.

Building an Iconic Philly-Inspired Brand in Atlanta

Building an iconic brand is no easy feat. It requires more than just a good product; it requires a strong brand identity, consistent messaging, and a deep understanding of your target audience. Big Dave's has successfully built an iconic brand by staying true to its roots, focusing on quality, and consistently delivering an exceptional customer experience.

One of the key elements of Big Dave's brand strategy is its focus on storytelling. Derrick is a natural storyteller, and he uses his personal experiences and his passion for cheesesteaks to connect with customers. He regularly shares stories on social media, in interviews, and in-person at his restaurants. These stories help to humanize the brand and create a deeper connection with customers.

Another important aspect of Big Dave's branding is its visual identity. The logo, the colors, and the overall aesthetic are all designed to be eye-catching and memorable. The brand consistently uses high-quality photography and videography to showcase its food and its atmosphere. This attention to detail helps to create a consistent and professional image that reinforces the brand's credibility.

Finally, Big Dave's has successfully built an iconic brand by focusing on customer loyalty. They have a strong social media presence and actively engage with their followers. They regularly offer promotions and discounts to reward loyal customers. They also solicit feedback and use it to improve their products and services. This commitment to customer satisfaction has helped Big Dave's build a strong and loyal following.

Hustle with Heart: Derrick Hayes's Journey

Derrick Hayes's journey is a testament to the power of hustle and heart. He didn't come from privilege; he built his business from the ground up through hard work, determination, and a relentless pursuit of his goals. He faced numerous challenges along the way, including financial difficulties, logistical hurdles, and personal setbacks. But he never gave up. He learned from his mistakes, adapted to changing circumstances, and always kept his eye on the prize.

One of the most inspiring aspects of Derrick's story is his commitment to giving back. As his business grew, he made it a priority to create opportunities for others in his community. He hires people who may have had difficulty finding employment elsewhere, providing them with a chance to learn new skills and build a better future. He mentors young entrepreneurs and shares his knowledge and experience with others. This commitment to social responsibility is a core part of Big Dave's brand and a reflection of Derrick's values.

Derrick's story is a reminder that success is not just about making money; it's about making a difference. It's about using your platform to uplift others and create positive change. His journey is an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs everywhere, demonstrating that with hard work, determination, and a genuine desire to serve others, anything is possible.

Creating an Inclusive Work Environment: Treating Employees Like Family

At Big Dave's Cheesesteaks, employees are not just workers; they are family. Derrick Hayes has created an inclusive work environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported. He believes that treating employees well is not only the right thing to do but also good for business. Happy employees are more productive, more engaged, and more likely to stay with the company long-term. They also provide better customer service, which leads to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Big Dave's offers competitive wages and benefits, as well as opportunities for advancement. They provide training and development programs to help employees grow their skills and advance their careers. They also foster a culture of teamwork and collaboration, where employees are encouraged to support each other and work together to achieve common goals.

But perhaps the most important aspect of Big Dave's work environment is the sense of belonging. Derrick makes it a point to get to know his employees personally, to understand their needs and aspirations, and to support them both professionally and personally. He celebrates their successes and helps them through difficult times. This genuine care and concern for his employees is what truly sets Big Dave's apart.

Media Recognition: Forbes and Good Morning America Features

The success of Big Dave's Cheesesteaks has not gone unnoticed. The brand has been featured in numerous media outlets, including Forbes and Good Morning America. These features have helped to raise the brand's profile and attract new customers. They have also served as validation for Derrick Hayes's hard work and dedication.

The Forbes article highlighted Big Dave's commitment to community engagement and its role in revitalizing underserved neighborhoods. The Good Morning America segment showcased the restaurant's authentic Philly cheesesteaks and its inspiring story of success. These media appearances have helped to solidify Big Dave's position as a leading brand in the restaurant industry.

These features are a testament to the power of authenticity, quality, and community engagement. They demonstrate that by staying true to your values and consistently delivering an exceptional experience, you can build a brand that resonates with customers and attracts positive media attention.

Hospitality Hustlers Series: Highlighting Leaders Who Rose Through the Ranks

Big Dave's story perfectly embodies the spirit of our Hospitality Hustlers series. This series highlights leaders who started on the frontlines of the hospitality industry and rose to the top through hard work, dedication, and a genuine passion for service. These individuals have overcome challenges, seized opportunities, and created successful businesses that make a positive impact on their communities.

Derrick Hayes is a prime example of a Hospitality Hustler. He started with nothing but a dream and a desire to bring a taste of Philadelphia to Atlanta. Through sheer determination and a relentless hustle, he built Big Dave's Cheesesteaks into an iconic brand that is loved by customers and respected by the industry. His story is an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and a testament to the power of the human spirit.

Key Takeaways: Lessons in Grit, Growth, and Genuine Hospitality

The Big Dave's Cheesesteaks story offers valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs and anyone looking to build a successful business. Here are some key takeaways:

• Authenticity is key. Stay true to your values and your brand identity.
• Community engagement matters. Give back to the community and support local organizations.
• Treat employees like family. Create an inclusive work environment where everyone feels valued and respected.
• Never give up. Overcome challenges and persevere through difficult times.
• Hustle with heart. Work hard, stay focused, and never lose sight of your goals.
• Tell your story. Connect with customers on a personal level and share your passion.

These principles have guided Big Dave's Cheesesteaks to success, and they can help you build a thriving business that makes a positive impact on the world.

Conclusion: The Big Dave's Legacy and Inspiration for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

The story of Big Dave's Cheesesteaks is more than just a tale of a successful restaurant; it's a testament to the power of authenticity, community, and genuine hospitality. Derrick Hayes's journey from the streets of Philadelphia to becoming a respected entrepreneur in Atlanta is an inspiration to anyone who dreams of building their own business. His commitment to quality, his dedication to his employees, and his unwavering belief in his vision have created a brand that resonates with customers and makes a positive impact on the community. We hope this blog post, expanding on our conversation with Derrick, has inspired you. If you haven't already, check out the full episode of The Hospitality Hangout featuring Derrick Hayes: Grill. Grind. Greatness. The Derrick Hayes Hustler Story. It's a story of grit, growth, and genuine hospitality that you won't want to miss. As Big Dave's continues to expand and grow, its legacy will undoubtedly inspire aspiring entrepreneurs for years to come.