Interviewer: Peter, you’ve become known not just for your success in business, but for your deep impact on New York City’s culture and economy. Can you take us back to the beginning—what sparked your journey?

Peter Guimaraes: It all starts with my roots. I was born in Portugal and raised in Hartford, Connecticut. My parents worked incredibly hard to give us a better life, and I watched them make sacrifices day after day. That shaped me early on. I got my start in construction—over the years, I built more than 100 homes throughout Connecticut and developed around a dozen restaurants nationally. I learned everything from the ground up, with my hands. That foundation taught me how to bring big ideas to life.

Interviewer: You’ve ventured into a wide range of industries. What unites your work across real estate, hospitality, and entertainment?

Peter: I’ve always had this passion for creating experiences. Whether it’s a home, a restaurant, or a bottle of wine, I want people to feel something. I’m not afraid to take risks or do things differently. That mindset carried into Tipsy Girl, my sparkling wine label. It’s bold, a little rebellious, and it tells a story—just like the city it was born in. Being on The Real Housewives of New York City helped amplify that message, but the core of my work has always been about innovation and authenticity.

Interviewer: Tell us about your latest venture, Au Bar 56. It’s been generating quite the buzz.

Peter: Au Bar 56 is my newest baby, and one I’m especially proud of. It’s not your typical piano bar. In fact, it’s the only piano bar where guests can actually sit at the piano itself. We buy grand pianos, remove the original tops, and custom-build granite surfaces so people can sip cocktails and enjoy tapas right at the instrument. I designed and built the entire space myself, down to the smallest detail. And we feature live entertainment every single night—it’s elegant, intimate, and immersive. You can follow us on Instagram at @aubar56.

Interviewer: Your work extends beyond entrepreneurship. What made you decide to enter the political arena?

Peter: When COVID hit, I watched the city I love suffer—especially its small businesses. That pain lit a fire in me. I realized that New York needed leadership that not only understood the numbers, but understood the people behind those numbers. That’s why I ran for mayor in 2021. I wanted to offer real solutions, create economic opportunity, and support the dreamers and doers who keep this city alive. It wasn’t about politics—it was about people.

Interviewer: You’ve talked about legacy being a key motivator. What does that look like for you now?

Peter: Legacy isn’t just about wealth—it’s about impact. It’s about creating something that lasts and uplifts others. My daughter, Makayla, means the world to me. She’s currently in university, so she’s not active in the business yet, but I hope one day she’ll step in and bring her own brilliance to what I’ve started. I want her to feel empowered by the work I’ve done, and hopefully, build on it in her own way.

Interviewer: With so many accomplishments behind you, what’s next?

Peter: I’m always looking ahead. New businesses, new projects, new ways to inspire and support others—especially here in New York. My focus remains on building things that matter, whether it’s a brand, a movement, or a moment that helps someone believe in their own potential. My story is still being written.

Interviewer: How can people keep up with your work and your mission?

Peter: I’m very active on Instagram—you can follow me at @petergfornyc for updates on my public work and initiatives, and @tipsygirlwines to see what we’re doing in the lifestyle space. My message is simple: never stop building, never stop dreaming.