Canadian Living’s Executive Editor, Elizabeth Baird judged the California Walnuts Inspiration Contest at the Canadian Restaurant and Food Service Association Show on March 2-4. Food professionals from across Canada showcased their creative culinary masterpieces for a chance to win $10,000.00. Finalists from across Canada submitted products in five categories: baked goods, confectionary, breads, snacks, and desserts. The top three competitors in each category are brought to the Direct Energy Centre in Toronto to compete for the grand prize. This is Chantelle Gorham of the Northwest Fudge Factory in Levack Ontario, and her Wally Nuts, winner of the Best in Snacks category. Elizabeth explained to me that equal to taste and visual appeal, the criteria for the winning products meant the competitors needed to consider the marketing and public appeal of the products. So with any luck we will be able to try these yummy treats ourselves in the not to distant future. Dufflet Rosenberg of Dufflet Pastries, Toronto, Ontario, was first runner-up for Best of Show. Her Walnut Gold Rush Tart came in first in the desserts category. Here is some delicious walnut bread with yummy toppings. Elizabeth said this pear and walnut cake was moist and delicious. Chantelle was second runner up for the Best in Show with her fudge covered Wally Nuts. Jae Park of Bread 'N Buns Factory, based in Coquitlam, British Columbia, won the title of 'Best in Show' and a cash prize of $10,000 for his California Walnut Raisin Rye Bread. Click here to sign up for Christine's Food for Friends e-newsletter!