Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my most recent experience at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I found behind its entrance was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The State of Affairs: Grimy and Neglected
From the moment I entered , it was evident that sanitation was not a priority at this venue. The ground was covered in grime , and a nauseating aroma of old alcohol and filthy restrooms permeated the entire pub. Smelling a mixture of human waste, decay and a sickly smell. The counter , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and trash that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The bathroom was in even a truly awful state— clogged , with a snapped lever and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and talking to people around , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a persistent problem . Many visitors have reported spotting critters darting across the serving surface and signs of rats in the basement . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the quality of their products .
The Owners’ Conduct : Allegations of Impropriety
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, a fantastic read what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is clouded website by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I noticed how uncomfortable several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was stunned to find allegations against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women accusing him of harassing them digitally. Described as overly aggressive and inappropriate , his actions has created an unwelcoming setting bar mastersons for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a lurking threat than a genial proprietor .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Involved or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of stepping in to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a chilling layer to the already unhealthy environment at the establishment.