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 the early 19th century by Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo, a Mexican military officer and rancher. Originally part of Mexico, the area was settled by European and American pioneers drawn to its fertile land and mild climate. The city quickly grew as a center of agriculture, with vineyards, orchards, and dairy farms flourishing in the surrounding countryside. In 1867, the arrival of the railroad spurred further growth, connecting Santa Rosa to San Francisco and opening up new markets for local products. The devastating 1906 earthquake brought widespread destruction to the city, but Santa Rosa quickly rose from the rubble, rebuilding with elegant new architecture and a resilient spirit. In the following decades, Santa Rosa continued to prosper, becoming a hub for industry, commerce, and culture in the North Bay region. Today, Santa Rosa is known for its vibrant arts scene, award-winning wineries, and beautiful parks and gardens, making it a popular destination for tourists and residents alike.
1. Top 10 industries that are hiring locally:
- Healthcare
- Technology
- Hospitality
- Education
- Finance
- Manufacturing
- Retail
- Construction
- Government
- Transportation
2. Top 10 recreational activities the area is known for:
- Hiking
- Biking
- Skiing
- Fishing
- Golfing
- Kayaking
- Wine tasting
- Camping
- Rock climbing
- Wildlife viewing
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:
- 500 feet above sea level
6. Average home price:
- $300,000
7. Average household income:
- $60,000
8. Top 10 tourist points of interest:
- Historic downtown area
- National park
- Botanical garden
- Museum
- Zoo
- Observatory
- Waterfront attractions
- Amusement park
- Wineries
- Historical landmarks
The top 10 restaurants:
SingleThread Farm – Restaurant – Inn
Downtown Santa Rosa
SingleThread offers a farm-to-table experience with a set menu featuring seasonal produce from their own farm. It’s a perfect blend of Japanese and Californian cuisine.
Zazu Kitchen + Farm
The Barlow
Zazu is known for its farm-to-table philosophy, offering fresh, locally sourced dishes, with a focus on pork and house-cured meats.
Ca’Bianca
Old Town Santa Rosa
Set in a beautifully restored 19th-century house, Ca’Bianca serves Italian cuisine with an extensive wine list, offering dishes from different regions of Italy.
Stark’s Steak & Seafood
Railroad Square
A classic American steakhouse known for its high-quality steaks and seafood, alongside modern and vintage cocktails, in a cozy and elegant setting.
Bird and The Bottle
South A Street
This restaurant offers a mix of American and international dishes, with a focus on shareable plates and a great selection of whiskey and cocktails.
John Ash & Co.
Vintners Inn
Known for its wine country cuisine, John Ash & Co. offers an elegant dining experience with dishes inspired by local ingredients and paired with Sonoma County wines.
La Gare French Restaurant
Railroad Square
A family-owned restaurant that has been delighting patrons with traditional French cuisine in a cozy setting, perfect for a romantic night out.
Monti’s Rotisserie
Montgomery Village
Monti’s offers a selection of rotisserie meats and hearty comfort food, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
Bravas Bar de Tapas
Healdsburg
This vibrant Spanish tapas bar serves small plates featuring both traditional and modern flavors, perfect for sharing with friends in a lively environment.
Rosso Pizzeria & Wine Bar
Santa Rosa Avenue
Rosso is beloved for its wood-fired pizzas and Italian-inspired dishes, offering a generous selection of wines, with a relaxed and inviting vibe.
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