OCALA, FL (352today.com) – December is not usually a time when we see a bunch of new businesses opening their doors but given the consistent and explosive growth of the 352, there are several new businesses to bring to your attention here at the end of the month.

Aldi

Even though it boasts low prices, it would be a mistake to label this super hot grocery chain as a discount supermarket. Originally from Germany but with a U.S. headquarters in Batavia, Ill., Aldi just opened a new location in the 352 at 27405 U.S. HWY 27 in Leesburg’s Lake Harris Square Shopping Center.

Creole 21

Summerfield restaurant El Criollo has rebranded as Creole 21, but reportedly still serves up the same delicious variety of Latin dishes with a particular focus on Puerto Rican cuisine. Definitely give it a taste but be prepared to wait a minute for a table–this place is extremely popular with South Marion’s Latin population and reliably packed through the weekend. 16580 S. HWY 75, Summerfield. 352-307-9300

Dutch Bros

The cavalcade of coffee continues with the soft opening of first location of Oregon-based Dutch Bros in Ocala’s Six Gun Plaza. Check out our coverage here. 2400 NE 49th Terrace, Ocala. 877-899-2767

Emma’s Patisserie

This extremely popular Euro-style bakery has just opened its second location at the World Equestrian Center, in WEC’s work-in-progress Equestrian Manor. Like fancy artisanal pastries and amazing gelato? Well, here you go. NW 17th Pl., Ocala. 352-414-7866

Men’s Wearhouse

This reliable Houston-based go-to for a wide range of suits, men’s formal wear and accessories has been around for more than half a century and opened a new location this month at 4414 SW College Road, Suite 1440 in the Market Street at Heath Brook shopping complex. 352-237-6871

Paddock Market

As trends in retail continue to change, the powers that be at Ocala’s venerable Paddock Mall are experimenting with opening a large space for smaller independent retailers–you know, the cool kind that aren’t usually found in malls–to create a strollable market space. This is still in the building-out stage, but current tenants already include Taco y Mas, Four Smokes BBQ, Dynasty Boutique, Divyne Gifts, The Journey Bookstore and more. Check out our coverage here. 3100 SW College Road, Ocala.

Polo Pony

Another new addition to WEC at its Equestrian Manor venue, The Polo Pony “celebrates America’s diverse culinary heritage with elevated tavern classics and inventive chef-driven dishes for lunch and dinner.” NW 17th Pl., Ocala. 352-844-8782

4Rest Day Spa & Refillery

It is what it says it is. The Refillery is promoting sustainability and cutting waste by allowing consumers to refill their own containers with household products like detergent, dish soap, shampoo, etc. It’s an interesting experiment alternative retail and will hopefully catch on. 923 N. Magnolia Ave., #1000, Ocala. 352-727-8031

Tropical Smoothie Cafe

This Atlanta-based chain has long been a favorite of Floridians across the state on the strength of its wide variety of smoothies and lunchy flatbreads and wraps. The region’s newest location opened just a few days ago at 8300 SW State Road 200.