Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I experienced behind its threshold was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The State of the Venue : Unhygienic and Disregarded
From the moment I entered , it was immediately obvious that sanitation was not a priority at this bar . The floors were sticky , and a overpowering stench of old alcohol and filthy restrooms suffused the entire establishment . Smelling a mixture of excrement , decay and sickness . The main bar, which should be the focal point of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and litter that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The bathroom was in even a truly awful state—overflowing , with a shattered handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Based on the experiences shared online and speaking with locals , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this bar is a persistent problem . Many visitors have reported observing cockroaches darting across the bar area and traces of mice in the adjoining rooms. For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of anything they serve .
The Owners’ Conduct : Accusations of Misconduct
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place one I wish I could erase blog link —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I noticed how uncomfortable several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was stunned to find numerous complaints against him involving misconduct , with multiple women alleging that he of sending indecent material . Described as overly aggressive and violating, Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a predatory presence than a welcoming host .
Employee Actions : Part of the Problem or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of taking action to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a disturbing layer to the already toxic atmosphere at this pub .