There's the rare gems like you mention for sure and I know a place or two as well but generally that's the exception. America and Australia run fairly lineball. I mean, some of the shops/brands are different but it's basically the same place (less Mexicans here) so I think, the exchange rate considered, the financial climate is the same or a similar temperature. (even though you fucken people use Fahrenheit and we use Celcius.)

I really enjoy finding those little stand-outs as you mention, the same when customer service exceeds expectation (rare these days) so I show my appreciation; gratitude is the currency mostly but often a tip. (Tipping is not required or often done in Australia)

Thanks for commenting and adding to the discussion.