Arthur, a 1960s holdover, operates a rundown donut shop in Chicago's Uptown, while Franco, a young, African-American assistant, writes his own great American novel. They build an unlikely relationship despite butting heads. Franco is eager to add healthy foods, music and a more trendy atmosphere. Arthur wants to keep everything as is. Throughout the play, Arthur reminisces in humorous and poignant ways about his city, his family and times past.