The cooler-than-thou duo running coffee pop-up HI NRG have created one of San Francisco’s few genuine FOMO vibes in just over a year. Luis Gonzalez and Nathan Kruse’s time at wine bar High Treason has cemented the Coffee Movement alums as a spot for morning see-and-be-seen DJ sets and innovative coffee drinks.
Walking up to HI NRG, you’re as likely to see twenty-somethings decorated in camouflage who have never held a gun as you are to see a serious-looking watercolor painter posted up by the door. The line moves quicker than you’d think, music is as front-and-center as coffee, and you will probably find a seat (but don’t bet on it on the weekends).
Don’t try to drive to HI NRG. If you must, expect difficult parking. Then, unless it’s a weekday, expect a long line. Then, if you like what you see, come by for one of the pop-up’s coffee tastings, advertised on their Substack.