Buhl Food Truck Earns Top Rating in Southern Idaho

TWN Flames, a food truck based in Buhl, Idaho, has been named Southern Idaho Food Truck of the Year by the Consumer Ratings Institute, which cited the business's 4.9-star rating. The recognition, announced October 15, 2026, is based on publicly accessible consumer review data evaluated by the Institute. The veteran-owned, husband-and-wife business serves chef-driven Asian-fusion street food out of Buhl, a small city in Idaho's Magic Valley region.

How the Rating Was Built

The Consumer Ratings Institute describes itself as a national business recognition registry based in New York that evaluates companies across all sectors using aggregated public review data, issuing awards across multiple categories drawn from publicly accessible consumer reviews.

TWN Flames' menu pairs signature favorites with rotating specials. Staples include crispy tempura chicken tossed in orange, gochujang or soy-garlic-honey sauce, served with white or fried rice. The Banh Mi Bowl features crispy pork katsu and pickled daikon, while The Side Piece is a pork katsu sandwich with shredded cabbage and katsu sauce, served alongside hand-cut, twice-fried fries.

"We're grateful to every customer who has walked up to our window and taken the time to share their experience. We built this truck so our family could cook together and feed our community, and every plate carries a little of our story. This recognition belongs to the people who keep coming back, and it pushes us to keep every order bold, hot and made with care."

— James Hoben, Co-Owner and Head Chef at TWN Flames

From Army Service to the Serving Window

James Hoben, a retired U.S. Army Master Sergeant, and Sydney Hoben, a retired U.S. Army Sergeant First Class, bring military leadership, business experience and formal culinary training to TWN Flames. James previously served as a chief operating officer, while Sydney worked as an assistant director of admissions at the University of Idaho and marketing manager for the Twin Falls Area Chamber of Commerce. Both are honors graduates of Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts and together hold eight degrees rounded out by their Masters Degrees.

The two divide responsibilities along lines shaped by their respective skills. James runs the kitchen as head chef, drawing on years spent in professional kitchens in Indiana and Hawaii before the truck existed. Sydney holds the title of CEO while also working as a chef, writer and the creative force shaping the menu, a dual role that spans both the financial and culinary sides of the operation.

That split of a culinary lead and a business-and-menu lead is common among small, owner-operated food businesses, where the same two people often cook, manage finances, market the brand and handle customer service simultaneously. For TWN Flames, the arrangement traces directly back to the military partnership that brought the Hobens together before they ever served a plate commercially.

Beyond the Truck Window

TWN Flames is not limited to walk-up service. The business offers catering for office lunches, family celebrations, weddings and community events, as well as private chef experiences. Groups can visit the truck directly, place a large group order for pickup, or book private food truck service that includes on-site cooking and a menu customized around the specific event.

Customers can find TWN Flames' upcoming service locations and hours on its website and social media, or contact the business directly about catering, private food truck service and private chef experiences.

Giving Back in the First Year

During their first year in business, the Hobens have supported local community programs and organizations including Valley House in Twin Falls, Ronald McDonald House and, most recently, the Eagles Autism Foundation, reflecting their commitment to using TWN Flames to give back.

For James and Sydney, TWN Flames brings together culinary training, business experience and a commitment to family and community. In its first year, the business has welcomed local regulars and visitors from across the country while supporting causes close to the owners' hearts. The recognition marks a milestone for the Buhl-based business and the community that has helped it grow.