Interesting to hear the complaints. Perhaps I'm just used to it, but it's always seemed to me that connecting in YYZ is inoffensively generally positive. Mind you, I'm probably spoiled by having Nexus/GE which helps a lot in Intl-Domestic and Domestic-US connections, but I prefer connecting in YYZ to EWR, ORD, YVR, FRA, and LHR, which are the other options I typically have.
I guess you're right that shopping and restaurant selection is rather poor, but then again I don't expect to have a good time shopping or eating at an airport anyway. Yes ORD has a better restaurant selection, but still not something one would seek out. And LHR has snazz shopping that I can't imagine ever spending money on, but last place I want to buy stuff is an airport (then cart it around? no thanks!)