Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my recent visit at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I experienced behind its walls was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The State of Affairs: Grimy and Neglected
From the moment I entered , it was clear that cleanliness was not a priority at this venue. The floors were sticky , and a nauseating aroma of old alcohol and uncleaned toilets polluted the entire bar . Emitting a scent of a mixture of ammonia , old age and sickness . The counter , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and litter that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The lavatory was in even a truly awful state— backed up, with a shattered handle and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Based on the experiences shared online and talking to people around , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this so-called read more establishment is a well-known flaw . Many guests have reported seeing bugs darting across the bar area and traces of mice in the bar and house area . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the quality of their offerings.
Management’s Behavior : Claims of Misconduct
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its operators . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I observed how uncomfortable several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was alarmed to find accusations against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women citing incidents of sending unsolicited mastersons bar explicit content . Described as disturbingly assertive and disrespectful , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unwelcoming setting for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a predatory presence than a amiable manager.
The Staff’s Responsibility : Part of the Problem or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-owner and frequently seen supervising the venue. Rather than addressing the issue to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. This complicity adds a alarming layer to the already poisoned setting at this pub .