New students arrive at Cabrillo College's culinary program. Gabe is a former gang member looking to turn his life around after a recent stint in prison. Amalia, stay-at-home mom of four, is eager to take on new responsibilities but nervous about accepting a role other than "wife and mother". Kim regrets dropping out of culinary school decades ago and is ready to prove herself, despite her reluctant husband. Jim, a Navy veteran, suffers with a terrible injury that left him jobless & homeless 8 years ago, is seeking a better life. The students get thrown into the fire with their first catering class assignment, leading to a conflict between Jim and his professor.