Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, nestled in the bustling area 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 entrance was appalling and beyond comprehension .
Cleanliness Issues : Unhygienic and Disregarded
From the moment I entered , it was apparent that upkeep was not a priority at Masterson’s . The ground was covered in grime , and a foul smell of decaying beverages and dirty bathrooms filled the entire establishment . With a smell of a mixture of human waste, putrefaction and sour vomit . The counter , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and trash that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The toilet was in even more deplorable shape — clogged , with a cracked flush mechanism and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Going through other patrons’ reviews read more and speaking with locals , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a well-known flaw . Many visitors have reported observing cockroaches darting across the counter and signs of rats in the basement . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the integrity of their offerings.
The Owners’ Conduct : Accusations of Unethical Conduct
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what breaking news 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 high-profile job as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I noticed how tense several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was appalled to find reports against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women accusing him of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as disturbingly assertive and inappropriate , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created browse site an intimidating space for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a lurking threat than a friendly owner .
The Role of the Staff : Complicit or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-proprietor and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of taking action to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. This complicity adds a chilling layer to the already unhealthy environment at this pub .