I honestly thought that Ideal Bagel, whose impending existence has been rumored for quite some time, might turn out to be a white whale on the Athens food scene.

Luna Baking Co. owner Matt Downes always has a lot of projects going, and this one has been in the works for several years. Well, color me surprised to see the bagel shop open this morning, next to Treehouse Kid & Craft on Broad in the former Nuwaubian Temple/Ideal Amusement Co. (the latter provides the new restaurant its name and portions of the sign).

It's not just bagels. Ideal will also make sandwiches on the ringed breads and on regular Luna bread. The hours are Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. (it's closed Sunday).

If you want to see a menu, sister eatery Ike & Jane has posted a photo of it on Facebook, along with the shot you see here.

Update: Reached for comment, Downes emailed, "Glad to be open! Glad to be in Athens! Fresh Bagels, House Smoked Fish....."