The series follows the relationships between three close-knit generations who happen to live a little too close for comfort.

The centrepiece is sportswriter Ray Barone (Ray Romano), who lives on Long Island, NY, with his loving but no-nonsense wife, Debra (Patricia Heaton), and their three kids (Madylin Sweeten, Sawyer Sweeten, Sullivan Sweeten). Living just across the street, embracing the motto, "Su casa es mi casa," are Ray's meddling parents, Marie (Doris Roberts) and Frank (Peter Boyle). And, constantly moving in and out his parents' house is Ray's older brother, Robert (Brad Garrett), a policeman who resents Ray's successful career and happy family life. When it comes to life with the Barones, The conversation gets as hot - and as rich - as the food.