Welcome to the Newto News for January of 2026. 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!

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Santa Rosa, California was founded in 1833 by Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo, a prominent Mexican general and politician. Originally a small agricultural community, the city grew rapidly during the California Gold Rush of the 1850s, attracting settlers from all over the country. In 1863, Santa Rosa became the county seat of Sonoma County, solidifying its role as a central hub for commerce and government in the region. The city continued to expand throughout the 20th century, with the establishment of wineries, breweries, and agricultural industries driving its economy. Santa Rosa was also home to a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous theaters, galleries, and music venues attracting artists and performers from across the country. However, the city faced tragedy in 2017 when a devastating wildfire ripped through the region, destroying thousands of homes and displacing many residents. Despite this setback, Santa Rosa has since rebuilt and continues to thrive as a diverse and dynamic community.

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  • Healthcare
  • Retail
  • Technology
  • Education
  • Hospitality
  • Finance
  • Manufacturing
  • Construction
  • Transportation
  • Government

    • 2-

  • Hiking
  • Skiing
  • Fishing
  • Camping
  • Biking
  • Boating
  • Golfing
  • Snowboarding
  • Wine tasting
  • Rafting

    • 3-

  • Average Low Temperature: 45°F
  • Average High Temperature: 75°F

    • 4-

  • Average Precipitation: 2 inches

    • 5-

  • Elevation: 4,000 feet

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  • Average Home Price: $350,000

    • 7-

  • Average Household Income: $60,000

    • 8-

  • National Park
  • Historic Downtown Area
  • Botanical Gardens
  • Art Museum
  • Zoo
  • Waterfront Park
  • Local Wineries
  • Science Center
  • Historic Landmarks
  • Outdoor Music Venue

    • The top 10 restaurants:

    SingleThread

    Downtown Santa Rosa

    SingleThread offers an exceptional farm-to-table dining experience with a focus on locally sourced ingredients, creative dishes, and elegant presentation. This Michelin-starred restaurant combines elements of modern California cuisine with Japanese influences.

    Bird & The Bottle

    East Santa Rosa

    This fun and vibrant restaurant offers a mix of global flavors with a focus on American BBQ and seafood. It has a lively atmosphere and serves dishes meant for sharing, making it ideal for groups.

    Willi’s Wine Bar

    Old Railroad Square

    Willi’s Wine Bar is a casual and cozy spot known for its extensive wine list and tapas-style menu. The dishes here are perfect for sharing, and the friendly ambience makes it a popular local choice.

    Stark’s Steak & Seafood

    Railroad Square

    Stark’s offers classic steakhouse dishes with a modern twist. Known for its prime cuts of meat and fresh seafood, it caters to those seeking a traditional yet contemporary dining experience.

    Ca’Bianca

    Historic Downtown

    Set in a charming Victorian building, Ca’Bianca serves authentic Italian cuisine. It is well-loved for its romantic setting, attentive service, and delightful pasta and seafood dishes.

    Bravas Bar de Tapas

    Healdsburg, nearby Santa Rosa

    This lively tapas bar is a favourite for its Spanish-inspired small plates and extensive sherry list. Its energetic atmosphere is complemented by an outdoor seating area.

    The Spinster Sisters

    Southeast Santa Rosa

    Located in the south A Street arts district, this restaurant is known for its creative approach to New American cuisine. It emphasizes locally sourced ingredients and provides a unique artistic dining experience.

    Grossman’s Noshery & Bar

    Railroad Square

    This trendy spot merges the delicatessen traditions with a full bar service, offering up East Coast Jewish dishes with a California flair. Its vibrant atmosphere reflects Santa Rosa’s eclectic dining scene.

    Valette

    Healdsburg, nearby Santa Rosa

    Valette offers a seasonally inspired menu with dishes crafted from ingredients sourced from Sonoma County. The restaurant provides a refined yet laid-back atmosphere perfect for culinary enthusiasts.

    Sazon

    Downtown Santa Rosa

    Sazon is famed for its authentic Peruvian flavors, serving traditional dishes such as ceviche and lomo saltado. This family-owned restaurant delivers a warm and hospitable dining experience.

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