Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , 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 encountered behind its threshold was disturbing and far below any standard .
The State of the Venue : Squalid and Neglected
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was immediately obvious that cleanliness was not a priority at this bar . The floors were sticky , and a overpowering stench of old alcohol and filthy restrooms polluted the entire establishment . Emitting a scent of a mixture of excrement , old age and sickness . The counter , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The restroom was in even a truly awful state—overflowing , with a shattered handle and walls covered in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. After reading through multiple accounts and additional info speaking with locals , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this pub is a recurring complaint. Many customers have reported observing cockroaches darting across the drink station and proof of vermin in the bar and house area . For a business a post that serves drinks , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the quality of anything they serve .
Unprofessional Behavior: Accusations of Impropriety
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I saw how distressed several women seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was appalled to find numerous complaints against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women alleging that he of harassing them digitally. Described as excessively forward and boundary-crossing , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an intimidating space for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a unsettling figure than a friendly owner .
Employee Actions : Contributing or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of taking action to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a troubling layer to the already mastersons bar toxic atmosphere at Masterson’s .