Jean Delport

The rise of a Michelin-starred chef between two worlds

Hailing from the captivating landscapes of South Africa, Jean Delport distinguished himself early on through his passion and talent. After a brilliant career in some of his country's finest establishments, he decided to take on a unique challenge: becoming the executive chef of Interlude, nestled in the heart of Leonardslee Gardens in Sussex. His commitment and creativity were quickly rewarded: in 2019, he earned a Michelin star, making him one of the few South African chefs to have conquered the British culinary scene. A unique journey, guided by a respect for local traditions and an uncompromising pursuit of excellence.

For me, each dish is a story that connects the land to the table, an invitation to explore taste, nature, and sharing.

Jean Delport

A forest-garden cuisine, between emotion and creativity

At Interlude, Jean Delport offers an extraordinary sensory experience: tasting menus inspired by nature, wild foraging, and a celebration of every element of the surrounding terroir. His cuisine is imbued with the seasons and the bounty of Leonardslee's gardens; each dish is a journey, a tribute to the local ecosystem. Attentive to the smallest detail, he imagines bold and refined creations that invite discovery and surprise. Under his direction, Interlude has established itself as an essential gourmet destination for lovers of authentic culinary experiences.

The rise of a Michelin-starred chef between two worlds

Chef's word

A forest-garden cuisine, between emotion and creativity

The kitchen jackets of our ambassadors

The ambassador selection