Set in the early 1960s amidst high racial tensions in America, the story follows Tony Vallelonga, a waiter at the Copacabana Club in New York. Desperate for extra money, Tony impulsively steals a Mafia boss's hat, not realizing the severe consequences of his actions. The Mafia threatens to destroy the club, leading to its temporary closure and leaving Tony without a job or means to support his family. The following morning, Tony's father, father-in-law, and brothers are gathered at his home, watching soccer and expressing distrust toward the African-American plumbers working in the kitchen, reflecting their prejudice. In contrast, Tony's wife, Dolores, is kind-hearted and does not share the family's racist views, making her a notable exception in this environment.