The best shop is the one that is local to you. You will probably have to work with them on QC'ing samples, etc., so it's much easier if you're local. If you can build rapport with the guys at the shop who take your orders and actually make the plates, they can probably understand better what you want, and may be more likely to give you a break on pricing as a hobbyist. Most of these shops are dealing primarily with large commercial or industrial orders, and price their work accordingly.
