Hello - I've been reading through literally hundreds of amazing posts
since I discovered this newsgroup after one of your regulars posted an
obituary for Bob Pastorio in another group.

For years I've been trying to track down a recipe for a dish I
experienced almost 40 years ago in a little restaurant up in Topanga
Canyon in Southern California.

It was called "Cheese Walnut Loaf" on the menu and even though it
didn't have any meat in it, it was a very meaty dish and tasted
divine. There were definitely walnuts in it and also cheese - possibly
a sharp cheddar. Visually, it looked a bit like a thick slice of
meatloaf or a thick square helping of lasagne.

Like I say, it was almost 40 years ago, and I don't remember what it
was served with or whether it was accompanied by a sauce or gravy. But
the Walnut Loaf itself was memorable for it's rich, savoury taste and
it's moist, meaty texture.

As a side note, someone may remember the restaurant by my description.

It was on the south (canyon) side of Topanga Canyon Road just before
the village. It was situated in an old house that hung over the creek
and the tables were set in rooms around the house. In summer you could
sit out on a deck that looked down to the creek.

The owner was a sturdy woman who personally vetted everyone who came
to the door. You'd knock and she would open a small window in the door
and look you over. If she didn't like what she saw, you didn't get in.
If she did, you received a warm welcome and, sometimes, a big hug.

The menu was very small (maybe five main courses in total) and the
food was always superb.

Her word was law and God help anyone who didn't like it. Having
witnessed her reaction to someone who criticised her menu for not
having more choices, my friends and I kept our comments to ourselves
and enjoyed our meals. However, we would praise the cooking, which
was, without exception, excellent - something I wish I could say about
other restaurants before or since.

I tried many dishes there (one of the best was simply sauteed chicken
livers and rice both done to perfection), but the one I still salivate
about is that Cheese Walnut Loaf. Any assistance will be appreciated.
Cheers, Bob