OBJECTIVES: I. Evaluate the response rate of combined cisplatin and irinotecan in patients with metastatic or locally advanced (inoperable or recurrent) esophageal or gastric cancer. II. Evaluate the toxic effects both qualitatively and quantitatively of cisplatin and irinotecan in these patients. III. Estimate the disease free and overall survival of these patients. IV. Assess whether the response proportion differs between squamous cell and adenocarcinoma of the esophagus. V. Evaluate quality of life issues using the Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale, the FACT-G questionnaire, and the dysphagia scale.