Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my latest trip at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I discovered behind its doors was disturbing and far below any standard .
The Condition of the Premises : Unhygienic and Disregarded
From the moment I entered , it was clear that cleanliness was not a priority at this venue. The ground was covered in grime , and a nauseating aroma of old alcohol and neglected washrooms polluted the entire establishment . Emitting a scent of a mixture of ammonia , putrefaction and illness . The serving zone , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and debris that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The toilet was in even a more revolting state —overflowing , with a cracked flush mechanism and walls covered in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and mastersons bar review speaking with locals , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this bar is a well-known flaw . Many customers have reported seeing bugs darting across the bar area and proof of vermin in the bar and house area . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the safety of the food and website drinks .
Management’s Behavior : Claims of Inappropriate Actions
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I observed how tense several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was stunned to find accusations against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women alleging that he of harassing them digitally. Described as disturbingly assertive and disrespectful , his actions has created an intimidating space for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a sweating predator than a genial proprietor .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Part of the Problem or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-proprietor and frequently seen handling business . Rather than intervening to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a troubling layer to the already unhealthy environment at Masterson’s .