Cheese Curd Shack Won Top Food Vendor Award

Readers of The News & Observer voted the Raleigh-based food truck as the best local vendor.

Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Food and Drink

Screen-print poster illustration of a vintage food truck with a paper cone of fried snacks, evoking local culinary tradition. — The Raleigh-based food truck Cheese Curd Shack has been named the top food vendor by readers of The News & Observer. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you prefer supporting independent local food vendors over large corporate options at community fairs?

The Cheese Curd Shack has earned the top food vendor award from readers of The News & Observer. The popular food truck is recognized for bringing Midwestern-style fried cheese snacks to the Raleigh area.

Why it matters

The recognition highlights the growing popularity of regional snack traditions in the North Carolina culinary scene. It also underscores the success of independent food trucks in securing loyal followings through specialized menu offerings.

The vendor currently offers 3 standard white cheddar curd flavors, including original, garlic, and jalapeno options. These items are deep-fried and served with a choice of ranch or marinara dipping sauces.

The players

The Cheese Curd Shack

This food truck specializes in deep-fried white cheddar cheese curds inspired by Midwestern snack traditions.

The News & Observer

This daily newspaper serves the Raleigh-Durham area and conducts annual polls to recognize local business and lifestyle achievements.

The details

Founded by an entrepreneur who noticed a lack of fried cheese curds in Raleigh in 2015, the business officially launched at the North Carolina State Fair in 2017. The menu has since expanded to include a variety of batter flavors, with a ranch-seasoned option introduced to the lineup last year.

The owner identified a lack of cheese curds in Raleigh in 2015.
The Cheese Curd Shack business launched in 2017.
The vendor introduced a Ranch seasoning batter last year.
The News & Observer published the vendor award on September 30, 2026.

Industry Dynamics

The award reflects a broader trend of regional food traditions gaining national traction through the mobile food truck model. By bringing the Midwestern cheese curd snack tradition to North Carolina, the business has successfully captured a niche market that previously lacked this specific culinary offering.

Local diners can sample the award-winning menu by tracking the food truck at various regional events like Brewgaloo. The business also maintains a presence at the North Carolina State Fair, where fans can expect new menu additions in the near future.

The takeaway

Supporting local food trucks provides residents with access to specialized regional snacks that are often unavailable in traditional brick-and-mortar restaurants. Experimenting with seasonal event menus, like the upcoming new snack launch, allows customers to experience unique iterations of classic comfort foods.