HOPKINSVILLE, KY – Vansauwa’s Tacos and Vegan Eats has been named the Grand Champion of the 2024 Kentucky Food Truck Championship. The prestigious event, hosted in Mt. Vernon – Rockcastle County, showcased 42 food trucks from across the state, vying for the $5,000 grand prize.
The championship took place Saturday, Sept. 14, 2024, attracting a large crowd of food enthusiasts who sampled an array of delicious offerings from participating food trucks.

Five judges and chefs, including Chef Brittani Ratcliff from Chopped and Hell’s Kitchen, evaluated each participant based on taste, presentation and overall experience. Vansauwa’s presented its new pineapple fried rice bowl, which included jerk chicken over fried rice, topped with pineapple-mango salsa, pico de gallo and its signature Cajun mayo, all served inside a grilled pineapple bowl. The blend of authentic Caribbean flavors and homemade sauces captivated both the judges and the attendees, securing the top honor and selling out the food truck.
“We are honored to receive this recognition,” said Desaepa Vansauwa, owner and founder of Vansauwa’s Tacos and Vegan Eats. “Winning the Grand Champion title is something we always knew we had the capability of doing.”
The Kentucky Food Truck Championship was started by Mt. Vernon – Rockcastle County Tourism in 2021. Vansauwa’s Tacos has competed every year, winning Best Food Truck Spirit in 2021, Best Theme in 2022 and Best International Dish in 2023.
Co-owner and founder Zirconia A. Vansauwa said winning in their fourth year makes it even more special. “It reflects the hard work, passion and commitment we pour into our business. We thank the judges for recognizing that on the plate and our loyal customers who continue to support us on this journey.”
Vansauwa’s Tacos and Vegan Eats is dedicated to providing delicious and high-quality meals that cater to both taco lovers, Caribbean foodies and those seeking plant-based options. In addition to serving unique jerk chicken dishes, Cajun fish tacos and other island-inspired items, the menu includes dedicated vegan and vegetarian dishes.
This victory will allow the food truck to expand its reach and continue introducing more customers to its unique culinary creations.
To celebrate this achievement, Vansauwa’s Tacos and Vegan Eats will host a celebration event at a later date at Hopkinsville Brewing Company. The food trailer will also feature the Pineapple Fried Rice Bowl through the end of September. Details of upcoming events and partnerships can be found on their social media channels and website.
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