Michael Imperioli, renowned for his portrayal of Christopher Moltisanti in the hit mob show "The Sopranos," has embarked on a new venture by launching an upscale speakeasy named Scarlet on the Upper West Side. The establishment, located at 468 Amsterdam Ave., opened its doors on Tuesday and promises to be a vibrant addition to the neighborhood.

Teaming up with his wife, Victoria, who brings her interior and theatrical set designing background to the table, Imperioli aims to recreate the nostalgic ambiance of 1920s Paris or New York with the Art Deco style of Scarlet. The couple's 27-year-long partnership has proved fruitful, particularly during Imperioli's early struggling days as an actor when they met at a bar near the Chelsea Hotel.

Imperioli, 57, expressed his admiration for the mood and atmosphere Victoria has created within the lounge. He aspires to be involved in live music, including DJing, as well as coordinating talent for the jazz and other lounge events that the venue will host. In a recent telephone interview during a break from filming "American Horror Stories," Imperioli revealed his enthusiasm for scouting acts, artists, musicians, and spoken word performances that will captivate the audience.

The decision to embark on this endeavor holds a personal connection for Imperioli, as he recently discovered that his great-grandfather, Raphael Segno, operated a speakeasy in Mount Vernon during the 1920s after immigrating from Naples. Imperioli stumbled upon this information while filming for the PBS series "Finding Your Roots," prompting him to delve into his family's past. His great-grandfather's legacy inspired Imperioli to pay homage to the Prohibition era by creating a speakeasy similar to the one his ancestor ran.

Scarlet's cocktail menu, crafted by renowned mixologist Matt Burkhardt, features a variety of signature drinks. Notably, "The White Lotus" pays homage to Imperioli's standout performance in the second season of the critically acclaimed HBO series of the same name. With their focus on quality and sophistication, the Imperiolis aim to make Scarlet a prominent highlight in the Upper West Side's cocktail scene.

Helmed by owner Michael Wladis, who also manages neighboring eateries such as Good Enough to Eat, Nina's Great Burrito Bar, and Harvest Kitchen, Scarlet promises to cater to the discerning Upper West Side crowd. The Imperioli couple, who reside in the neighborhood, frequented Wladis' establishments and formed a friendship. Recognizing Victoria's talents in interior and set design, Wladis approached her with the opportunity to create the ambiance for Scarlet.

Victoria Imperioli shares her hopes for Scarlet, stating, "I hope that Scarlet can be the oasis where a weary traveler can reconnect with his or her senses and the timeless now." With their combined passion, creativity, and shared vision, Michael and Victoria Imperioli's Scarlet is poised to become a go-to destination for an enchanting and upscale speakeasy experience on the Upper West Side.