Chef Jean Delport
A highly acclaimed South African chef known for his innovative approach to fine dining. Born in Cape Town, Jean moved to the countryside in West Sussex to continue his culinary journey.
About Jean
Upon opening Restaurant Interlude, Jean quickly realised his dream of winning his first star in the 2019 Michelin guide, becoming only the second South African to do this.
Jean gained recognition for his elegant and nature-inspired cuisine while combining classical techniques with modern creativity, often using seasonal and locally sourced ingredients to craft immersive tasting menus. His expertise and dedication have positioned him as a rising star in the culinary world
Growing up along Blaauwberg beach front in Cape Town, Jean Delport honed his culinary skills in South Africa’s renowned Cape Winelands, training under esteemed chefs like Dan Evans and Michael Broughton. His passion for fine dining led him to prestigious kitchens, including Terroir and Rust en Vrede, before gaining European experience in Killarney, Ireland.
In 2014, he joined Equus at Cavalli , where he met Adam and Penny Streeter. This connection led to his role at Benguela on Main, paving the way for the launch of Interlude in 2018 at Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens. 10 months later, Interlude earned its first Michelin star, followed by a Michelin Green Star in 2023. Jean and his team craft seasonal, Sussex-foraged, and South African-inspired tasting menus, with the estate’s gardens playing a central role in their cuisine.
Jean's love for the African bush and open-fire cooking has been deeply ingrained in him since childhood. This, combined with his newfound appreciation for the English countryside, has transformed his cooking into something far more personal. When not in the kitchen, Jean enjoys spending time outdoors, playing golf and watching all sports, particularly rugby, cricket and football, and immersing himself in all thing’s hospitality.
Jean on the Great British Menu
In 2025, Jean represented London and the South East on BBC’s Great British Menu. He went on to win the fish course as well as the main course, only the second chef on the history of the show to do so. While showcasing a wide variety of cooking cultures and flavours close to his heart, Jean describes being able to cook two courses at the Great British Menu banquet that was held at the awe-inspiring Blenheim Palace as ‘an enormous privilege and a dream come true.’
Ambassador for Prept
Jean has recently become an ambassador for the Prept Foundation, a charity dedicated to teaching young people cooking skills and fostering a healthy relationship with food through hands-on experiences. This cause is close to Jean's heart, who describes it as "one that is extremely important for the future of food and our industry."
Learn more
Restaurant Interlude
Restaurant Interlude is a Michelin-starred fine dining destination located in the picturesque Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens estate in West Sussex, UK. Here Jean offers a unique, nature-inspired tasting menu that highlights seasonal and locally foraged ingredients along with Jeans South African heritage and childhood memories.
The restaurant’s immersive dining experience showcases modern techniques and elegant flavours, reflecting the beauty of its historic gardens. With a focus on sustainability and innovation, Interlude has earned a reputation as a must-visit culinary gem.
Jean can’t wait to see you there.
Media
Work with Jean
Jean is available for interview and broadcast opportunities and appearances as well as partnership and brand opportunities which allow him to showcase his expansive range of skills.
For PR and Chef enquiries, please contact
laura@wentworthcommunications.com