Michelin plans to start awarding one‑to‑three “grapes” to wineries in 2026. Napa and Sonoma producers could face fresh market pressure and new attention.

El Tucan Tacos and Beer has opened on the San Rafael waterfront, bringing charbroiled Tijuana‑style tacos, new seafood tacos and eight local beers on tap. The former Pier 15 space now seats roughly 120 indoors and out.

Fieldwork Brewing opened its first Sonoma County taproom at Montgomery Village in Santa Rosa, pairing rotating drafts with pizzas and non‑alcoholic options.

Pastasciutta, a new Italian bottega from the owners of Diavola, has opened in Geyserville selling housemade pasta, prepared dishes and holiday panettone. It’s a grab‑and‑go complement to the restaurant next door.

Petaluma's first Chick-fil-A opens Thursday at 6:30 a.m. at 5012 Petaluma Blvd N, promising roughly 70 jobs and a $25,000 donation to Redwood Empire Food Bank.

SingleThread shares the No.1 spot on LaListe’s 2026 Top 1,000, bringing international recognition to Healdsburg’s tasting‑menu scene.

A bureaucratic error allowed Little Caesars to bypass Sebastopol's chain ban. Despite mixed local reactions, the city admitted the mistake but permits stand.

Healdsburg’s Simi Winery was sold to WarRoom Cellars after a rapid ownership shuffle this year, with the small buyer promising to refresh the historic 1876 label.

The historic Jimtown Store in Healdsburg has reopened with new owner Michelle Wood adding dim sum to the classic menu, while maintaining community spirit and familiarity.

Bistro Lagniappe, a new California-French bistro by Chef Jacob Harth, is set to open in Healdsburg on May 29, emphasizing locally sourced ingredients and sustainability.

The Sonoma Valley launches "Sonoma Sips" event with $15 wine tastings at nearly 40 wineries to attract visitors and counter the industry's recent downturn.

Joe Matos Cheese Factory in Santa Rosa closes after 45 years, citing economic challenges and increased insurance rates. The company was known for its traditional Portuguese St. Jorge cheese.

C Casa, a Mexican restaurant in Napa, has closed after 15 years. Economic factors, the pandemic, and low visitor traffic contributed to the closure. The restaurant also faced a fine for child labor violations but has taken corrective actions.