New York bartender Mario is not surprised by the arrival of another young Irishman, Liam, to his establishment. Mario introduces Liam to fellow Irishman, Owen, who invites him to stay in his apartment along with cousin Des and friend Paddy. Across the hall lives Mary and her fun loving friends.

Liam quickly fits into the life of little Ireland in the Big Apple. By day he and other friends work illegally as builders, gardeners, waiters, even dog walkers, dodging the immigration officials and happy to be paid a pittance. At night they enjoy the camaraderie of Mario's Bar, and the frission of falling in love thousands of miles from home.