Welcome to the Newto News for February of 2025. My name is Zack Cockfield, and my team and I created Newtomedia as a way for visitors or new residents to get information about a city. Each month we bring together resources that will update you on the history, amenities, culture, future opportunities and all other things inside a city that make it unique. We also hope to be a resource for connecting you with people and businesses that can help you live a better life. If you find our efforts useful, please click on the links to get more information!
For more information, Go to newtomedia.com
Birmingham, Alabama was founded in 1871 after the Civil War as an industrial city focused on steel production. The city quickly became known as the “Magic City” due to its rapid growth and development. Birmingham’s economy thrived on the abundance of iron ore, coal, and limestone found in the surrounding mountains. During the early 20th century, Birmingham became a major hub for the steel industry, attracting thousands of workers to the city. However, the city also faced challenges, such as racial segregation and labor strikes. In the 1960s, Birmingham gained national attention during the Civil Rights Movement, as it was a key battleground for desegregation efforts led by activists like Martin Luther King Jr. and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. Today, Birmingham is a vibrant city known for its diverse culture, arts scene, and culinary offerings. The city continues to honor its history while embracing progress and development in various industries, including healthcare, finance, and technology.
1. The top 10 industries that are hiring locally:
- Healthcare
- Technology
- Education
- Hospitality
- Finance
- Retail
- Manufacturing
- Construction
- Transportation
- Government
2. The top 10 recreational activities the area is known for:
- Hiking
- Biking
- Skiing
- Fishing
- Golfing
- Boating
- Wine tasting
- Visiting museums
- Attending concerts
- Exploring local parks
3. Average low and high temperature for the month:
- Low: 50°F
- High: 75°F
4. Average precipitation for the month:
- 3 inches
5. Elevation:
- 5,000 feet
6. Average home price:
- $300,000
7. Average household income:
- $60,000
8. The top 10 tourist points of interest:
- National Park
- Historical Site
- Botanical Garden
- Zoo
- Art Gallery
- Amusement Park
- Shopping District
- Scenic Overlook
- Wineries
- Theater
The top 10 restaurants:
Highlands Bar & Grill
Five Points South
Highlands Bar & Grill is a renowned fine dining restaurant offering Southern-inspired French cuisine. Known for its elegant atmosphere and exceptional service, it has been a staple in Birmingham’s culinary scene for decades.
Chez Fonfon
Five Points South
Chez Fonfon is a charming French bistro known for its authentic French dishes and cozy ambiance. It offers a delightful menu featuring classic French favorites and an impressive wine selection.
Hot and Hot Fish Club
Southside
Hot and Hot Fish Club is a contemporary American restaurant that blends Southern, French, and California influences. It is celebrated for its seasonal menu and innovative dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients.
Bottega Restaurant
Highland Park
Bottega Restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with a menu that combines Italian and Mediterranean flavors. The restaurant is known for its elegant setting and exceptional culinary creations.
OvenBird
Lakeview
OvenBird is a unique restaurant that focuses on live fire cooking, offering a menu inspired by the flavors of Spain, Portugal, and South America. It provides a vibrant dining experience with a focus on small plates.
El Barrio
Downtown
El Barrio is a lively Mexican restaurant known for its creative takes on traditional Mexican dishes. It offers a vibrant atmosphere and a menu that emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Automatic Seafood and Oysters
Lakeview
Automatic Seafood and Oysters is a seafood-centric restaurant offering a menu that highlights fresh, sustainable seafood. It is known for its casual yet refined atmosphere and exceptional oyster selection.
Helen
Downtown
Helen is a modern Southern grill that offers a menu focused on wood-fired dishes. It is celebrated for its innovative approach to Southern cuisine and its warm, inviting atmosphere.
Saw’s Soul Kitchen
Avondale
Saw’s Soul Kitchen is a beloved barbecue joint known for its Southern comfort food and mouthwatering smoked meats. It offers a casual dining experience with a focus on hearty, flavorful dishes.
Gianmarco’s Restaurant
Homewood
Gianmarco’s Restaurant is a family-owned Italian eatery offering a menu of classic Italian dishes. Known for its warm hospitality and authentic flavors, it provides a cozy and inviting dining experience.
Current Events:
Thu • 5:00pm
Monster Jam
Protective Stadium
Thu • 6:00pm
Dude Perfect: Hero World Tour
Legacy Arena at The BJCC
Thu • 5:30pm
Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship
Protective Stadium
Thu • 7:30pm
Rick Springfield & Richard Marx 2025 – Acoustic Tour
BJCC Concert Hall
Thu • 7:30pm
Stayin’ Alive: One Night of the Bee Gees
The Lyric Theatre
Thu • 7:30pm
Alton Brown Live: Last Bite
BJCC Concert Hall
Thu • 7:00pm
Ali Siddiq: In The Shadows
BJCC Concert Hall
Thu • 7:00pm
Brad Williams: The Growth Spurt Tour
Alabama Theatre
Thu • 7:30pm
Bored Teachers: The Struggle Is Real! Comedy Tour
BJCC Concert Hall

