Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my latest trip at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I found behind its threshold was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The State of Affairs: Grimy and Abandoned
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was apparent that sanitation was not a priority at this establishment . The surfaces were tacky , and a pungent odor of uncleaned spills and neglected washrooms permeated the entire establishment . Emitting a scent of a mixture of excrement , a rotting odor and illness . The serving zone , which should be the focal point 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 — clogged , with a broken handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and conversing with residents , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this pub is a long-standing issue . Many guests have reported seeing bugs darting across the drink station and evidence of rodent infestations in the basement . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the safety of the food and drinks .
Misconduct by Ownership : Reports of Misconduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I saw how uncomfortable several women seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was stunned to find accusations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women citing incidents of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as uncomfortably pushy and boundary-crossing , his actions has created an unsafe environment for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a lurking threat than check out this site a friendly owner .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen managing check here operations . Rather than addressing the issue to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a chilling layer to the already poisoned setting at Masterson’s .