As of summer 2021, for the physical driving test, where exactly does it take place? Is there a specific route test takers at the bayshore mall dmv office take on normal st's or is the entirety of the test in the mall parking lot?

Does not take place only in parking lot. There are nice neighborhoods nearby with stop signs, street lights and other things including parking. Suggest you practice in several neighborhoods around town. Good luck... you'll be fine.👍

They have about five different routes that take about fifteen minutes that have a combination of freeway and city (commercial & residential)driving through town.