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 turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I discovered behind its walls was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
Cleanliness Issues : Squalid and Neglected
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was immediately obvious that hygiene was not a priority at this bar . The surfaces were tacky , and a pungent odor of decaying beverages and filthy restrooms suffused the entire bar . Reeking of a mixture of urine , putrefaction and sour vomit . The serving zone , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and litter that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The toilet was in even a more revolting state — clogged , with a snapped lever and walls covered in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this pub is a long-standing issue . Many patrons have reported spotting critters darting across the drink station and traces of mice in the storage spaces . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their products .
The Owners’ Conduct : Accusations of Unethical Conduct
However, as horrifying 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 owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his get more info reputation in the professional sphere is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I observed how uncomfortable several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was horrified to find numerous complaints against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women citing incidents of harassing them digitally. Described as disturbingly assertive and inappropriate bar mastersons , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an intimidating space for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a predatory presence than a friendly owner .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Complicit or Weak?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-operator and frequently seen supervising the venue. Rather than intervening to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her inaction adds a troubling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the establishment.