Chiddy’s Cheesesteaks Franchise

Mike Chidester started Chiddy’s after leaving corporate management in 2013, following a career with Coca-Cola and IBM. On April 24, 2014, he opened his first cheesesteak truck on Long Island. The name came from his nickname, giving the business a personal identity from its first day.

According to the official founder biography, Chidester added a second truck in 2017 for catering and special events. He subsequently opened the first brick-and-mortar restaurant in Farmingdale with the franchise co-founders. That progression shaped the brand’s move from a mobile operation into neighborhood fast-casual restaurants.

Today, Chiddy’s pairs its cheesesteak focus with a broader menu of familiar comfort food and catering options. Its current franchise website presents a restaurant opportunity, while inviting separate inquiries about food trucks. The two formats should be evaluated on their own terms.

Chiddy’s franchise program includes classroom instruction and hands-on training. The company also describes on-site assistance before and after the grand opening, giving the owner support as training moves into restaurant operations.

Pre-opening help includes defined site-selection criteria, assistance evaluating potential locations and restaurant designs that can be adapted to the selected space. Founder Mike Chidester’s published franchise role includes training and design for new restaurants, together with real-estate and operational support.

After opening, the brand emphasizes direct guidance from its founders. That relationship gives operators a point of contact for the practical work of running the restaurant and applying the Chiddy’s concept locally. The published program supports the restaurant model; it does not establish that a food-truck operation is included with every restaurant franchise.

A recognizable cheesesteak specialty gives Chiddy’s a clear reason for customers to visit, while burgers, chicken sandwiches and catering broaden the occasions the restaurant can serve. Its Philadelphia supplier relationships and Long Island food-truck story provide a distinctive starting point for a neighborhood food business.

The model may appeal to an engaged owner who wants to coach a restaurant team and build local loyalty around approachable food. Contact FranchiseTop40 to explore how a Chiddy’s restaurant fits your operating experience and ownership goals.

Use our food franchise buyer guide to compare restaurant formats, site requirements, staffing and the full opening budget before building your shortlist.