TL;DR
Big Dave's Cheesesteaks has launched a new limited-time menu item, the Hot Bird Cheesesteak, as part of its growth strategy. The company is expanding its footprint across traditional storefronts and major sports venues, with 13 locations currently operating and a growing franchise pipeline.
Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks is continuing its national momentum with the launch of the Hot Bird Cheesesteak, available for a limited time beginning July 1 at participating locations nationwide. The launch reflects the company’s disciplined approach to menu development, using limited-time offerings to drive guest engagement while preserving the operational focus and product quality that have fueled its growth.
Now operating 13 locations with an expanding franchise pipeline, Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks has steadily expanded its footprint across both traditional restaurants and premier sports and entertainment venues. The brand’s portfolio includes restaurants inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Camping World Stadium, and Kia Center in Orlando, demonstrating the versatility of a concept designed to perform across multiple operating environments. At Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Big Dave’s ranks among the highest-grossing food concepts in its category, reinforcing the strength of its operating model and the sustained consumer demand for its authentic Philadelphia-style cheesesteaks.
Starting at $12.99, the Hot Bird Cheesesteak features 100% halal chicken, melted white American and provolone cheese, Dave’s Signature Sauce, crisp pickles, and the brand’s signature spicy seasoning, on an authentic Amoroso roll. The sandwich delivers layered flavor with a balanced kick of heat, giving guests a fresh take on the classic Philadelphia cheesesteak while remaining true to the quality and craftsmanship that define the Big Dave’s menu.
For Big Dave’s, limited-time offerings aren’t simply promotional events, they’re an extension of the company’s long-term growth strategy. Every addition to the menu must complement existing operations, create value for franchisees, and provide guests with a compelling reason to return. The result is a focused menu strategy that supports consistency, operational efficiency, and sustainable growth across every restaurant.
“We’ve never believed innovation means chasing trends,” said Derrick Hayes, Founder and CEO of Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks. “Every menu item has to earn its place. If it doesn’t create
value for our operators and give guests another reason to choose Big Dave’s, it doesn’t belong on our menu. The Hot Bird delivers something bold and new while staying true to the quality, hospitality, and Philadelphia roots that built this company.”
That philosophy has helped transform Big Dave’s from a single gas-station cheesesteak spot, into one of the nation’s fastest-growing emerging fast-casual concepts. By maintaining a streamlined menu, investing in premium halal ingredients, and executing consistently across every location, the company has built a scalable platform designed for long-term growth while preserving the identity that sets the brand apart.
“As Big Dave’s continues to grow, every menu decision has to work for the business as much as it does for our guests,” said Shawna Snyder, Chief Operating Officer of Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks. “The Hot Bird is a great example of that balance. It introduces a fresh flavor profile, fits seamlessly into our operating model, and gives franchisees another opportunity to drive traffic without adding unnecessary complexity to restaurant operations.”
The Hot Bird Cheesesteak represents another step in Big Dave’s disciplined approach to growth, pairing thoughtful menu development with a scalable operating model as the company continues expanding its national footprint.
The Hot Bird Cheesesteak is available for a limited time beginning July 1 at participating Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks locations while supplies last.
In this story
This story was originally published by Ben Coley in QSR Magazine on July 1, 2026. Burnaze summarizes and links to the original reporting.
Read the full story at QSR MagazineLiked this? Get the week's franchise news, explained
- Sunday 8 AM ET weekly + a monthly deep dive
- Sections picked for the industries you follow
- Every claim linked to its source. Free.