Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my latest trip at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I experienced behind its walls was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The State of Affairs: Squalid and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was immediately obvious that sanitation was not a priority at this venue. The ground was covered in grime , and a nauseating aroma of stale beer and neglected washrooms polluted the entire establishment . Reeking of a mixture of excrement , a rotting odor and sour vomit . The serving zone , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and refuse that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The restroom was in even worse condition —overflowing , with a snapped lever and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. After reading through multiple accounts and mastersons bar moonee ponds talking to people around , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this bar is a well-known flaw . Many visitors have reported spotting critters darting across the counter and traces of mice in the basement . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the safety of the food and drinks .
The Owners’ Conduct : Accusations of Misconduct
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this mastersons bar review establishment something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its managers. The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I observed how uncomfortable several women seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was alarmed to find numerous complaints against him involving misconduct , with multiple women alleging that he of harassing them digitally. Described as overly aggressive and boundary-crossing , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unwelcoming setting for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a lurking threat than a genial proprietor .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Contributing or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-proprietor and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of a great read stepping in to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a disturbing layer to the already toxic atmosphere at this pub .