Against his better judgment, Schmaltz lets Billy help him prepare for the opening of Schmaltz's Delicatessen. Mama is the cook, Tillie is the cashier, and Billy is the clerk. First there are problems stocking the shelves, then there's a discordant rehearsal of the musicians who will play at the opening, then there's Billy's inept hanging of the Grand Opening sign outside the shop. Why has such a crowd gathered? What has Billy done?