Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my recent visit at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I found behind its doors was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
Cleanliness Issues : Filthy and Neglected
From the moment I stepped inside , it was apparent that sanitation was not a priority at Masterson’s . The floorboards were filthy, and a overpowering stench of old alcohol and dirty bathrooms permeated the entire pub. Emitting a scent of a mixture of urine , putrefaction and sour vomit . The counter , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and debris that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The toilet was in even a truly awful state— clogged , 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 article source talking to people around , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a recurring complaint. Many guests have reported observing cockroaches darting across the drink station and traces of mice in the adjoining rooms. For a business that serves drinks , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the quality of the food and drinks .
The Owners’ Conduct : Claims of Impropriety
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its managers. The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I noticed how uneasy several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was stunned to find allegations against him involving misconduct , with multiple women alleging that he of harassing them digitally. Described as uncomfortably pushy and disrespectful , his behavior has created an intimidating space for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a sweating predator than a welcoming host .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Complicit or Weak?
Pete’s wife, check out this website Gillian , is a co-operator and frequently seen handling business . Rather than intervening to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. This complicity adds a disturbing layer to the already unhealthy environment at this pub .