By Jill

It’s a scientific fact (proven by actual scientists) that The Duke of Gloucester (649 Yonge St, upstairs) has one of the warmest rooms in the city. However, scientists have yet to determine the source of the heat, since no fireplace exists in the entire building. One possible explanation is that the room — tucked away near the front of the building and isolated from the rest of the pub — is almost entirely red, a dangerously hot colour. (Aptly named the Snug, pictured.) Another explanation is the small size – just one booth and a few tiny tables. (The booth happens to be one of the most comfortable spots in Toronto, but that’s for another list). Other possible sources of heat include the fine selection of beer, footie scarves on display, and ol’ timey (1980s) juke-box music. Plus, you can look outside for a bird’s eye view at all the suckers walking around in the freezing cold. For smokers, there’s an outside patio in the back that’s heated. Rejoice!