Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my latest trip at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I experienced behind its entrance was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
Cleanliness Issues : Squalid and Abandoned
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was apparent that sanitation was not a priority at this bar . The ground was covered in grime , and a foul smell of stale beer and uncleaned toilets permeated the entire venue . Emitting a scent of a mixture of urine , a rotting odor and illness . The counter , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and litter that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The bathroom was in even a truly awful state—overflowing , with a cracked flush mechanism and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a long-standing issue . Many patrons have reported seeing bugs darting across the drink station and signs of rats in the basement . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of the food and drinks .
The Owners’ Conduct : Claims of Misconduct
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions check here at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I saw how distressed several women seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was horrified to find accusations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women alleging that he of harassing them digitally. Described as disturbingly assertive and violating, his actions has created an intimidating space for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a unsettling figure than a friendly owner .
Employee Actions : Part of the Problem or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen supervising the venue. Rather than intervening to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Her inaction adds a disturbing layer to the already dangerous space at Masterson’s .