Photos by: Matt Johnson
On October 4, 2023, Recovery Café Louisville opened its doors at 930 Mary Street in the Shelby Park Neighborhood. Originating in Seattle, Recovery Café was founded by Killian Noe and Ruby Takushi in 2004. They created a model of recovery that was, at the time, and remains to be, an alternative, therapeutic approach to healing.
At its core is the belief that every individual, regardless of their past trauma, mental health struggles, addictive behaviors, or mistakes, is inherently precious and deserving of love. Recovery Café Louisville holds this belief and is there to meet individuals at various stages of recovery, emphasizing holistic well-being, and empowering people to realize their full potential. This community is not anonymous. Members are encouraged to come to the safe environment to find solace, support, and a sense of belonging.
“A big problem for those in recovery is the issue of isolation. We’re committed to being an antidote to that. We don’t exist without people walking through our doors and taking advantage of a community designed to be a support system,” said Sarah Charmoli, Recovery Café Louisville co-director.
Recovery Café Louisville is membership based. There are no fees to belong, but an active commitment is required. This entails committing to show up every week, participating in recovery circles, and upholding the guiding principles (which can be found at recoverycafelouisville.org).
Every Monday, the doors are open to serve coffee, provide a space for sharing struggles and successes, and to enjoy a communal meal. The café transforms into a dynamic space during the day, fostering a “coffee house culture" ambiance with co-working space, socializing, and wellness initiatives such as workouts, yoga, breathwork, and meditation.
Recovery Café serves as more than a physical space; it's a lifeline offering not only support and resources but also a genuine community of care and love. The hope is to impart skills to manage mental and physical health, maintain sobriety, build community, and guide individuals in reclaiming their lives and identities. At the heart of the philosophy is the conviction that every person is on a journey of recovery and possesses wisdom to share with others.
Crucially, the members are the lifeblood of the cafe. Bridging the gap between formal treatment facilities and daily life, the community provides an alternative that fosters productivity, happiness, and fulfillment. The doors are open every Monday at 10 AM, with a transformative recovery circle beginning at 10:30 AM. The cafe doors remain open until 6PM, followed immediately by an all-abilities workout. The vision is to expand the offerings, adding more days and diverse circle times, ensuring the community has ample opportunities for connection and healing.
“Recovery Cafe has been the first safe place I have found to be vulnerable about my trauma and addictions,” said member Oliver Anders*. “It’s intimate and supportive and feels comfortable for me as an alternative [to Alcoholics Anonymous] because it is not rooted in religion, but in love for humans. I look forward to the feedback from folks in the group because it makes me feel less isolated and gives me tools to take home and use.”
Recovery Café Louisville exists not just as a physical space, but as a way to honor the resilience and strength inherent in every member on their path to recovery. Together, the organization and its members embark on a journey of healing, transformation, and recognizing that divine love in each other.
*Name has been changed for privacy.
Recovery Cafe Louisville
930 Mary Street, Door 3
(502) 354-3266
Open: 10am-6pm Mondays