Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks in Atlanta: What to Know Before You Go

If you’re in Atlanta and craving a Philly-style cheesesteak with serious Southern attitude, Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks is probably already on your radar. The brand started in metro Atlanta and has grown into a local staple, especially for people who want late-night comfort food, quick takeout, or a cheat-day splurge with plenty of flavor.

This guide focuses on how Big Dave’s works in and around Atlanta: what’s on the menu, where to find locations, how ordering typically goes, and what locals tend to keep in mind before visiting.

What Makes Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks Stand Out in Atlanta?

Big Dave’s fits into Atlanta’s Southern and soul food landscape even though the menu is inspired by Philadelphia cheesesteaks. The twist comes from:

• Heavy, flavorful portions that feel right at home next to other Atlanta comfort-food spots
• Spicy options and creative toppings that line up with local tastes
• A strong presence in neighborhoods where people want fast, filling food after work, events, or nightlife

For Atlantans, Big Dave’s is often:

• A late-night stop after being out
• A game-day pickup for wings and cheesesteaks
• A destination for out-of-town guests who want to try an Atlanta-born brand

Popular Big Dave’s Menu Items (Atlanta Perspective)

While exact offerings can vary slightly by location and over time, the core menu across Atlanta-area shops usually follows a familiar pattern.

Core Cheesesteak Options

Most locations offer some variation of:

• Classic Beef Cheesesteak
  • Thin-sliced steak
  • Melted cheese (often American, provolone, or a cheese sauce)
  • Grilled onions and peppers, depending on your order
• Chicken Cheesesteak
  • Chopped chicken instead of beef
  • Great for people who want a lighter protein, though still very filling
• Loaded or Specialty Cheesesteaks
  • Extra toppings like mushrooms, jalapeños, sauces, and multiple cheeses

You’ll usually choose:

• Size (often regular vs. large)
• Cheese type, if options are listed
• Onions/peppers and whether you want it “plain” or fully loaded

Wings, Fries, and Sides

Big Dave’s is not just cheesesteaks. Atlanta locations frequently offer:

• Wings with several flavor choices (mild, hot, honey-style, lemon pepper, etc.)
• Cheese fries or loaded fries, often topped with meat, cheese sauce, and seasonings
• Onion rings or similar fried sides, depending on the store

These sides are popular for group orders or when you’re feeding a crowd on short notice.

Vegetarian or Lighter Options

Big Dave’s is primarily a meat-forward, indulgent spot. Some locations may:

• Offer vegetarian-style cheesesteaks or loaded fries using veggies and cheese
• Allow custom builds where you skip meat and load up on onions, peppers, mushrooms, and cheese

If you’re vegetarian or trying to stick to lighter options, it helps to:

• Call ahead and ask what’s currently available
• Check the menu posted in-store or on a delivery app before heading out

Big Dave’s Locations Around Atlanta

Big Dave’s has grown beyond Atlanta itself, but many metro Atlanta residents visit locations in and around the city for convenience.

Because restaurant openings, closings, and moves can change, it’s wise to:

• Verify a location’s current address and hours via phone or an established map/service before you drive
• Confirm whether the location offers dine-in, takeout, or delivery

Here’s a general guide to how locations tend to be distributed for Atlanta-area customers:

For exact addresses and phone numbers, Atlanta locals usually:

• Search “Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks” with their neighborhood name (e.g., “downtown Atlanta,” “Buckhead,” or “Decatur”)
• Use the phone number listed to confirm hours, menu options, and whether they’re currently accepting dine-in or to-go orders

Ordering at Big Dave’s in Atlanta

Walk-In Ordering

If you’re walking in:

1. Expect a line during peak hours.
   • Common busy times: weekday lunch, Friday/Saturday evenings, and after major events.
2. Review the menu first.
   • Many Atlanta customers like to decide their toppings while in line to keep things moving.
3. Be clear about your order details.
   • Specify beef vs. chicken
   • Choose your cheese
   • Say whether you want onions, peppers, mushrooms, and other toppings

💡 Tip: If you’re ordering for several people, writing down everyone’s order before you arrive can make the process smoother, especially when the restaurant is crowded.

Call-In and Takeout

Some Atlanta-area locations may accept call-in orders for pickup. When calling:

• Confirm:
  • Location name and address, especially if there are multiple in the area
  • Estimated wait time and pickup instructions
• Provide your name and phone number if asked, so they can match you to your order

Delivery Services

Many Atlantans get Big Dave’s through popular third-party delivery platforms. Availability depends on:

• Your exact address
• Which location is closest
• The time of day and whether the store is currently taking delivery orders

If you’re in:

• Downtown, Midtown, or Westside areas – access to delivery is often stronger due to higher restaurant density
• Outer suburbs – you may have fewer delivery options or slightly longer wait times

Typical Price Range and Portions

Pricing can change over time and by location, but most Atlanta consumers describe Big Dave’s as:

• Mid-range for fast-casual – more than a basic fast-food burger, less than full-service dining
• High on portion size – many find that a large cheesesteak or loaded fries can be shared or saved for a second meal

If you’re watching your budget:

• Consider sharing a large cheesesteak and a side with a friend
• Skip extra add-ons if you’re trying to keep the total lower

Dietary and Lifestyle Considerations

Big Dave’s cheesesteaks and fried sides are firmly in comfort food territory. For Atlanta residents and visitors thinking about nutrition or dietary limitations:

• Portion size: Sandwiches and fries can be very generous. Some people choose to eat half and save half.
• Ingredients: Common elements include red meat, cheese, white bread, and fried foods.
• Customization: You can often:
  • Ask for no cheese
  • Request extra vegetables like peppers and onions
  • Choose chicken instead of steak if that fits your preferences better

If you have allergies (dairy, gluten, soy, etc.):

• Ask staff directly about ingredients and potential cross-contact
• When ordering via phone, say your allergy clearly and ask what they recommend

When to Expect the Biggest Crowds in Atlanta

Crowding can vary based on location, but patterns are fairly consistent across the city:

• Lunch on weekdays (roughly 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.)
  • Popular with local workers, nearby students, and people running errands
• Friday and Saturday nights
  • Often busier, especially if the location is near bars, nightlife, or event venues
• Game days and major events
  • If there’s a big game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, State Farm Arena, or a major concert nearby, expect longer waits at locations within easy driving distance

To avoid longer waits, many locals try:

• Visiting in off-peak hours, such as mid-afternoon
• Calling ahead (where allowed) to ask how busy it is
• Using pickup orders instead of walk-in at the busiest times

Parking, Access, and Getting There

Because Big Dave’s locations are scattered across metro Atlanta, parking and access differ by store. Common scenarios include:

• Strip-center or shopping-plaza locations
  • Usually offer shared parking lots
  • Can get crowded at meal times
• Urban or in-town locations
  • May have a smaller lot or rely on nearby street parking
  • Check local parking signs to avoid tickets or towing

If you’re coming from Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport, many visitors:

• Take a rideshare (Uber/Lyft) directly to the nearest Big Dave’s location
• Or pick up a rental car and stop at a suburban or near-highway store on the way into the city

Tips for Atlanta Locals and Visitors Trying Big Dave’s

Here are some quick, Atlanta-specific pointers to get the most out of your visit:

• Check hours before you go.
  • Hours can vary by location and day. Some close earlier on weeknights or open later on Sundays.
• Plan around traffic.
  • If you’re crossing town at rush hour (roughly 4–7 p.m.), build extra time into your trip, especially if you’re heading to a location near busy corridors like I-285, I-20, or GA-400.
• Use it as a pre- or post-event meal.
  • Many locals stop at Big Dave’s before concerts, Braves games, Falcons games, or after nightlife. Just expect more crowds around those times.
• Bring out-of-town guests.
  • Visitors often enjoy seeing how an Atlanta-born cheesesteak spot puts its own spin on a classic East Coast sandwich.

How to Verify the Nearest Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks

Because Atlanta’s food scene changes quickly, the most reliable way to confirm where to go is to:

1. Search by “Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks” plus your Atlanta neighborhood or ZIP code.
2. Confirm:
   • Exact address
   • Phone number
   • Current hours of operation
3. If needed, call ahead and ask:
   • Whether they are open for dine-in, takeout, or both
   • Whether they’re experiencing long waits at that moment
   • If specific menu items (like certain specialty cheesesteaks or wings) are available

For anyone living in Atlanta, visiting, or just exploring the city’s comfort food scene, Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks is a convenient, filling option that reflects the city’s love for bold, satisfying flavors. Understanding how the locations operate, when they’re busiest, and what to expect on the menu can help you plan your visit and enjoy your meal without surprises.