What is the name of Lorelai's best friend and Dragonfly Inn chef?

Sookie St. James is Lorelai's best friend and the Dragonfly Inn's chef.

Sookie works with Lorelai first at the Independence Inn and later becomes her business partner at the Dragonfly Inn. Her enthusiasm for cooking, frequent kitchen mishaps, and warm friendship make her one of the show's most recognizable supporting characters.

Melissa McCarthy played Sookie in the original series. The character marries Jackson Belleville, a produce supplier, and their family grows during the show's run. Sookie's culinary skill contrasts humorously with her occasional lack of control in the kitchen.

The name is sometimes written without the surname, but the character's full credited name is Sookie St. James. She is not the inn's owner; Lorelai owns the business with Sookie as her partner.