
After her husband is killed in a trucking accident, Alice packs up the car and her son, Tommy, and heads to Hollywood, dreaming of a singing career. Her car breaks down in Phoenix, forcing her to take a job at Mel's Diner, a greasy spoon where gruff owner Mel barks orders to Alice and her fellow waitresses.

A famous philandering fashion photographer (guest star Desi Arnaz) complicates the waitresses' lives.

Mel is disappointed when an expected surprise party for his 50th birthday never happens.

Mel announces to the waitresses that he has gambled away the diner.

Mel can get his diner back if he can convince Robert Goulet to perform at a run-down Vegas motel.