Nestled in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, Simply Shroom Café is more than just a place to grab a bite—it’s the realization of a dream fueled by love, resilience, and a passion for health. For co-founders Crystal Carroll and Sharmi Albrechtsen-Kneller, the café represents both a fresh start and a mission to redefine wellness through food, community, and a commitment to better living.
Sharmi’s journey began with heartbreak. After losing her husband to cancer, she discovered the healing potential of medicinal mushrooms. “It was too late to help him,” she reflects, “but I knew I had to share these incredible benefits with others. Mushrooms are nature’s hidden treasures, and it became my mission to bring their magic to everyday life.”
Meanwhile, Crystal—a seasoned restaurateur and former Mrs. Arizona—was crafting unforgettable culinary experiences while dreaming of a concept that combined indulgence with intention. “I’ve spent years in the food industry, but this was a chance to create something truly meaningful,” says Crystal. “I wanted to bring wellness and joy together in a way that felt approachable and inspiring.”
When the two women met, their paths aligned perfectly. Together, they envisioned Simply Shroom Café as a place where health and happiness coexisted—a sanctuary for connection, nourishment, and joy. Their shared philosophy drew inspiration from the Blue Zones principles and their support of the Healthy Food Initiative spearheaded by Robert Kennedy, which promotes accessibility to wholesome, nutrient-rich foods.
“Healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated,” says Sharmi. “We wanted to create a space where people could enjoy delicious food without sacrificing their well-being. That’s why we focus on whole, clean ingredients and thoughtful preparation.”
Walking into the café feels like stepping into a vibrant fairytale. Bold pink-and-green décor, lush wallpaper, and an atmosphere humming with energy set the stage for a truly unique experience. But the real magic is in the menu.
Simply Shroom isn’t just a coffee shop. It offers a full menu brimming with fresh, whole foods—baby spinach, eggs, microgreens, avocados, and nuts—and plant-based options crafted with wellness in mind. Drinks like in-house boba teas, matchas, green teas, and cold brews are served with complimentary plant milks, and their signature 4M mushroom blend, tasteless and odorless, adds a subtle but powerful health boost to many offerings.
“We’ve transformed mushrooms from something people might avoid into an experience they crave,” says Sharmi. “We take pride in turning perceptions upside down and showing that healthy food can be indulgent, too.”
“Our goal was to create something special that celebrates health without compromising flavor,” Crystal adds. “This isn’t just about coffee; it’s about creating experiences that nourish the body and soul.”
Their dedication to reimagining wellness through food has helped Simply Shroom Café flourish, attracting locals and visitors alike for brunch, lunch, and vibrant community gatherings.
“People tell us all the time how much they appreciate the care we put into the menu,” says Crystal. “It’s not just about what we serve—it’s about how it makes people feel.”
Their story has even caught the attention of a TikTok reality show, which will document the highs and lows of their journey.
“We want to inspire others, especially women, to chase their dreams fearlessly,” Sharmi shares. “If we can do it, so can you. It’s about believing in yourself and the impact you can make.”
Simply Shroom Café is just the beginning. The duo is expanding their vision with wellness products, including mushroom-infused vitamin gummies and low-sugar candies, all aimed at making healthy living accessible and enjoyable.
“This isn’t just a café; it’s a movement,” Crystal says. “And we’re just getting started.”