Ari is an aspiring comedian who works various odd jobs to support her artistic ambitions. She participates in non-monogamous sexual relationships to maintain emotional distance and struggles with feelings of insecurity regarding her professional trajectory. She uses humor as a defense mechanism to mask her vulnerability.

Josh is an ambitious chef working at Scodella who deeply appreciates high-end culinary arts. He attempts to distance himself from his family's famous New York Jewish deli, Brodsky's, to establish his own professional identity. He values predictability and traditional monogamous commitment.

Radhya is a talented culinary professional with a background in Gujarati cuisine. She works diligently in professional kitchens and faces systemic biases in the restaurant industry. She is highly protective of her close friends and harbors strong resentment toward unfair workplace practices.

Cass is an academic advisor and professor. She is highly curated in her appearance and lifestyle, preferring to practice "relationship anarchy" rather than traditional commitment. Her sophisticated demeanor often leaves her partners feeling insecure.

Briar is an aspiring social media influencer who is highly connected online. She is outgoing and eager to insert herself into her brother's social life. She serves as a persistent force of support for her family's various business and personal endeavors.

Gabe is a comedian in the LaughRiot collective who frequently collaborates with Ari. He works the low-paying comedy circuit while offering straightforward advice to his peers. He acts as a blunt sounding board for Ari's personal and professional decisions.

Abby is a well-known realtor in New York City. Following her husband's death, she manages the family's real estate assets while remaining highly invested in her children's careers. She constantly attempts to manage her son's romantic life.

Danny is the late patriarch of the Kestenberg family. He founded Brodsky's, an iconic New York Jewish deli that generated a massive local following. His culinary legacy casts a long shadow over his son's high-dining ambitions.

Sophie is Josh's long-distance girlfriend. Their relationship involves significant physical distance and differing career trajectories, requiring scheduled communication to maintain their connection.

Natalie lives in New York City and inadvertently brings the two protagonists together. She schedules a date with Josh while simultaneously maintaining a casual sexual relationship with her roommate.

Katya is a young, successful professor who becomes involved with Cass. Her academic achievements represent the specific qualities that trigger intense insecurity in others.

Brad works for WinProv, a management consulting company that uses improv techniques. He manages corporate retreats and remains indifferent to ethical concerns regarding the company's wealthy clientele.