Everytime I've visited the Duke I've had a good time. The drinks selection is good compared with most of the bars around the UofT campus. I've not tried the food here enough to in good conscious leave a full stamp of approval, but from the little I've had, it's better than some chain pubs around and they put some effort in to them and it's noticeable. Their food platters are pricey, but good too!
Staff have always been friendly as well. I've been here for one on one meetings to events with very large numbers of people and each time the Duke has delivered.
There's something about this place that I prefer compared to other bars along/north of Bloor around the UofT campus. It's very roomy as well which always helps.
Nothing really stands out about it though, but I would recommend it, the crowds in my experience are more laid back and not very roudy (but then again, I might have just been there at the right times). Maybe it's also due to the fact that the prices a just a little higher than a typical university pub would offer.
Worth at least a visit!