The Bay is generally where I go when I know what I'm looking for, because as a rule I won't receive any competent help. Over the past few years, shopping at the Bay really has taken on all the hallmarks of shopping at Zellers--right down to the staff uniforms (aprons? really?)--and lost a lot of the classic "department store" vibe of old. Enter the Downtown Bay, which I have--time and again--enjoyed terrific shopping experiences up in Menswear. I've actually had competent help who have guided me through such workaday topics as "what is the right white shirt for you?"--the answer to which an enthusiastic staff member completely redefined in my mind! I had, for years, become so accustomed to trudging in and buying the same white shirts that I had totally missed the selection The Bay offers. Having said that--not all Bays are made equal. Most are akin to shopping in a pre-wrapped pig sty, where there is clearly no pride or sense of ownership taken by the staff. The Downtown Bay has none of the now-typical Bay employee indifference, and I'm glad for it.
If you've personally barred yourself from visiting The Bay (as I have) give the Downtown store a try. It may be a bit of a challenge to get to--but when only the Bay will do, I make the effort to find a parking spot and enjoy a civilised department store experience.