Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my most recent experience at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I experienced behind its threshold was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
Cleanliness Issues : Filthy and Neglected
From the moment I walked in , it was apparent that upkeep was not a priority at Masterson’s . The surfaces were tacky , and a overpowering stench of uncleaned spills and dirty bathrooms permeated the entire pub. With a smell of a mixture of excrement , a rotting odor and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the main attraction of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and refuse that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The bathroom was in even more deplorable shape — backed up, with a shattered handle and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. After reading through multiple accounts and talking to people around , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a persistent problem . Many guests have reported witnessing insects darting across the serving surface and evidence of rodent infestations mastersons bar in the bar and house area . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the quality of the food and drinks .
Management’s Behavior : Claims of Unethical Conduct
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its managers. mastersons bar The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I observed how uncomfortable several women seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was stunned to find numerous complaints against him involving misconduct , with multiple women accusing him of harassing them digitally. Described as disturbingly assertive and boundary-crossing , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unsafe environment for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a sweating predator than a amiable manager.
The Role of the Staff : Contributing or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-manager and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than addressing the issue to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a alarming layer to the already poisoned setting at mastersons bar the establishment.