Caught my attention when you mentioned the Mall type ship design. I don't like the interior boulevard designs for that same reason. And, it is one of the reasons I have enjoyed the Princess ship layouts. I think there are some older RCI ships that are better, but they are older. Some of the Celebrity ships have great layouts, IMO. We enjoy Millennium and Silhouette.
As far as what was, I think it gone on the mainstream lines and not likely to return as part of basic fares. Instead, it has been (or will be) replaced by the ship-within-ship approach or extra pay venues. Speaking only for myself, even considering cut backs, we still find the service is more than we need or want. We do recognize the quality of included dining is not near what it used to be.
Again speaking for myself, I enjoy just about everything on mainstream lines and will continue to use them. I think to truly get back to the higher level or service and quality that "was" might need a move up to a luxury line.