In the wake of unspeakable tragedy, Mildred (Kate Winslet) moves forward with preparations for her new chicken-and-pie restaurant. After a slow start on opening night, the restaurant fills to capacity, and Mildred gladly welcomes Ida (Mare Winningham) - her former fellow waitress at the diner - to help manage the frenzy. Among the guests is Monty (Guy Pearce), who wastes no time reacquainting himself with Mildred, and impressing Veda (Morgan Turner) with his refined stature. At Monty's suggestion, Mildred hires a new piano teacher for Veda, but is unable to buy her a new piano when the repeal of prohibition forces her to add a bar to the restaurant. As Veda grows resentful, Mildred chafes at the indolent Monty and his extravagant lifestyle, culminating in an emotional New Year's Eve faceoff.
