Charley’s Philly Steaks

Charley’s Philly Steaks, originally named Charley’s Steaks, is a quick-service cheesesteak restaurant that started on The Ohio State University’s campus in 1986. Founder Charley Shin convinced his mother to sell her own restaurant and invest in his after discovering Philly cheesesteaks on a family trip to New York City.

The 450-square-foot shop made Philly-style cheesesteaks in front of customers with the grill facing them, a trademark of Charley’s Philly Steaks franchised units across the country.

Shin founded Charley Philly Steaks’ parent company, Gosh Enterprises, which also owns 40+-unit Bibibop Asian Grill.

Key Data: Charley’s Philly Steaks

Headquarters: Columbus, Ohio

Segment: Quick Service

Restaurant Segment: LSR Sandwich / Deli

Number of US Locations: 558

2020 Sales: $375.9 million

Annual Growth

Source: Datassential Firefly 500

CEO: Charley Shin

Parent/Group: Gosh Enterprises