Why do so many docs encourage having bypass surgery? is it really that great?

I disagree: CABG is used much less than it used to be used since drug eluting stents and angioplasty have become a mature therapy. The indications for surgery are very specific and carefully scrutinized. It's primarily used to prolong life and to relieve symptoms that are not amenable to percutaneous intervention. When used appropriately, it's "great".