The skinny on the city’s newest chic/bad-ass coffeehouse…Contraband Coffee Bar.

The space is located where long-time running bar, John Barleycorn, served up stiff drinks to loyal customers in Lower Nob Hill. Since the place closed down over three years ago, no business has been executed in the space. The neighborhood agrees that there has been sufficient amount of time to mourn the loss of the bar.

So the question was, who would have enough kahunas to take over? Enter: co-founders Josh Magnani, from Mission Beach Cafe, and business mind Nathan Wyss.

San Francisco natives and gourmets, Magnani and Wyss want only the best coffee and local delicacies for the bar. The beans solely come their roaster based out of Oakland and espresso served up in shot glasses. An homage to John Barleycorn himself? Most likely. The cafe will feature empanadas from a local baker, Dynamo donuts, and a few other pastries featuring local artisans. Also, art from bay area artists will be displayed on the sleek walls and rotated monthly.

Contraband Coffee Bar is to open December 15, 2010.

1415 Larkin Street
San Francisco, CA 94109