In the vibrant Latino neighborhood of Washington Heights in New York City, a young bodega owner named Usnavi dreams of a better life. Every morning, the tight-knit community visiting his corner store shares their stories, dreams, and the songs of their homeland. Usnavi saves every penny from his daily grind, hoping to someday return to his native Dominican Republic to restore his late father's beachside bar. Meanwhile, he pines for the beautiful Vanessa, who works at the beauty salon next door, aspiring to become a fashion designer and move downtown. The sweltering summer heat pulsates through the city streets, mingling with the melody of aspirations and the rhythm of daily life.

The neighborhood buzzes with the news that someone from their community played a winning lottery ticket worth $96,000, enough to alter the course of their lives. Abuela Claudia, a matriarchal figure who raised Usnavi after his parents passed away, reflects on her journey from Cuba to New York and the struggles she's overcome. Kevin Rosario, owner of a local car service, harbors concerns for his business and his bright daughter Nina, who has returned from her first year at Stanford with a secret. Benny, Kevin's employee and Nina's love interest, dreams of building a future with her. As the fates of the neighborhood's residents intertwine, they face love, loss, and hardships while holding onto their hopes and sense of community.