Primo (played by Tony Shalhoub) and Secondo (played by Stanley Tucci) run a restaurant in 1950s New Jersey that specializes in authentic Italian cuisine. However, the restaurant is struggling to stay afloat, and they are deep in debt. To make matters worse, their main rival, Pascal's, is thriving right across the street.
One day, Primo and Secondo receive word that famed jazz musician Louis Prima will be performing in town, and they see this as an opportunity to save their restaurant. They plan an elaborate Italian feast to be served after the show, and they invite Prima and his entourage to come dine at their restaurant.
However, the preparations for the banquet are not without their challenges. Primo is a perfectionist and wants everything to be just right, but Secondo is more concerned about the business aspect and wants to make sure they don't go bankrupt. They also clash with their chef, who insists on serving traditional Italian dishes that may not appeal to the American palate.
As the night of the banquet arrives, tensions rise as Prima and his entourage have yet to arrive. When they do finally show up, the feast is a success, but it's not the total triumph that Primo and Secondo had hoped for. The film ends with Primo and Secondo sitting outside their restaurant, reflecting on the night's events and looking toward the uncertain future of their business.