Ray Kroc, a struggling salesman, stumbles upon a small but successful burger restaurant in San Bernardino, California, owned by brothers Richard and Maurice McDonald. Impressed by their speedy system of making food, Ray sees great potential in the concept and persuades them to allow him to franchise their restaurant. He faces numerous challenges and resistance from the conservative brothers as he attempts to expand the brand. Leveraging his relentless ambition and innovative strategies, Ray aggressively grows the chain, sometimes resorting to dubious methods.

As the franchise network expands, tensions rise between Ray and the McDonald brothers due to conflicting visions and business practices. Ray's increasing control over the brand leads to a power struggle that ultimately reshapes the future of the fast-food industry. Driven by his vision of creating a nationwide empire, Ray's actions have profound and lasting impacts on all parties involved.