Jean Delport
Originally from South Africa, but having made West Sussex his home, Jean Delport became only the second South African chef to gain a Michelin Star in 2019 thanks to his fusion of French and British cooking, with influences from his South African heritage.
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Growing up in the farming landscape of Cape Town, Jean trained at the prestigious Zevenwacht Chef School before working at some of South Africa’s top restaurants, as well as at a game lodge in Namibia and the Killeen House Hotel in Ireland.
However, knowing that the Michelin guide didn’t operate in South Africa, and having had the lifelong ambition of gaining a star, Jean decided to follow his dream and moved to the UK to open Restaurant Interlude, on the Leonardslee Estate in Sussex.
Set within the stunning 240 acre gardens, the restaurant allows him to grow his own herbs and work closely with local farmers, blending his South African heritage with the best seasonal British produce, to create an intricate tasting menu.
For the competition, Jean’s love of fine dining and refinement shines through his menu while celebrating a diverse group of British Heroes including British cookery writer, Elizabeth David.
