On March 26, Visit Bellevue’s Certified Tourism Ambassador (CTA) program brought together hospitality professionals for a night of flavor, culture, and connection at La Mar Bellevue—a Gaston Acurio restaurant that is blending Peruvian soul with Pacific Northwest flavor. Hosted as part of the CTA program’s quarterly networking series, the event invited CTAs to step behind the line with Chef Kaoru, a Peruvian-born Nikkei chef with experience at Nobu, who guided attendees through a hands-on cebiche-making session. Together, the group prepared two vibrant versions of the dish, one classic and one vegetarian, while learning about Chef Kaoru’s culinary roots and the cultural history of cebiche as a fusion of Peruvian and Japanese traditions.

About CTA Networking Events

CTA networking events are designed to connect ambassadors with businesses and experiences that define the visitor economy. By attending firsthand, CTAs gain valuable knowledge to better promote local attractions, restaurants, and cultural offerings to travelers and community members alike. These networking programs are offered to our Certified Tourism Ambassadors, a free program at Visit Bellevue.

About La Mar's Cebiche Class

La Mar’s private group experiences, like this interactive cebiche class, are also available for meetings, offsites, conventions, and team-building events. Their event programming offers groups a chance to learn, connect, and taste their way through Peru in an unforgettable setting right on Bellevue’s Main Street.