The film commences in Nick's room, portrayed by Michael Cera, where we find him leaving a heartfelt message on his ex-girlfriend Tris' (Alexis Dziena) answering machine. In his message, Nick shares that he is dropping off the twelfth volume of his mixed CD series titled "Road to Closure," a poignant attempt to understand the heartbreak of their recent breakup, particularly since it coincided with his birthday. The scene transitions to Sacred Heart High School in Englewood, NJ, where Norah (played by Kat Dennings) bops down the hallway, immersed in her iPod. She rendezvouses with her friend Caroline (Ari Graynor), who suggests a night out in the city. Norah consents, provided Caroline pledges to stay sober this time. As they leave, they encounter Tris, who brags about receiving another mixed CD from her ex and casually discards it in the trash. Norah, harboring a secret affection for these discarded CDs, retrieves it, revealing her past enjoyment of Tris's music taste.
As the night unfolds, Nick and his friends—Dev (Rafi Gavron) and Thom (Aaron Yoo)—arrive in a beat-up van, ready to perform at Arlene's Grocery. However, Nick is reluctant to go, citing a need for a mental health day. Eventually, with his friends' encouragement, he joins them. At the same time, Norah finds herself in the crowd, captivated by Nick's bass playing during their set. Caroline, meanwhile, is increasingly drunk and, amidst playful banter, nudges Norah towards Nick to catch his attention. When Nick spots Tris with her new boyfriend, the painful reminder of their breakup hits hard. In a moment of desperation, Norah kisses Nick, asking him to pretend to be her boyfriend for just five minutes, sparking jealousy in Tris.
Following some chaotic events involving Caroline and a van ride, Nick and Norah embark on a mission to find the elusive band Where's Fluffy? Their banter reveals their shared passion for music, though tensions rise when Nick inadvertently mentions Tris. As they navigate the unpredictable streets of the city, they endure a series of misadventures, including chasing after Caroline who, in a drunken stupor, has lost her way. Nick's realization of Norah's loyalty surfaces when they discover her sacrificial nature in caring for her friend.
Through chance encounters at clubs, and after enduring a series of mishaps that escalate the night’s drama involving exes and unwanted advances, Nick begins to understand the depth of his connection with Norah. Trapped in complicated feelings and personal realizations, they ultimately find themselves at Electric Lady Studios, thanks to Norah's familial ties. A significant moment arises when they share an intimate kiss while recording, further solidifying their bond.
As the climactic night concludes, both characters confront their former lovers, but the spark between Nick and Norah triumphs. As they walk into Penn Station, hand in hand, the air is one of hope and newfound connection; Norah's inquiry about missing the music unfolds into an honest moment between the two. Nick responds, emphasizing their budding relationship, culminating in a shared kiss as they descend the escalator together, marking the beginning of what promises to be a meaningful journey ahead.
