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 resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I encountered behind its entrance was appalling and beyond comprehension .
Cleanliness Issues : Unhygienic and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I entered , it was apparent that upkeep was not a priority at this establishment . The floors were sticky , and a overpowering stench of uncleaned spills and dirty bathrooms polluted the entire pub. Emitting a scent of a mixture of human waste, decay and sickness . The bar area , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and litter that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The bathroom was in even a truly awful state—overflowing , with a snapped lever and walls stained in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and chatting with the community, it seems that the standard of sanitation (or more info lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a persistent problem . Many guests have reported observing cockroaches darting mastersons bar across the bar area and proof of vermin in the storage spaces . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of the food and drinks .
Unprofessional Behavior: Claims of Impropriety
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is marred 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 dug deeper , I was horrified to find accusations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women alleging that he of harassing them digitally. Described as uncomfortably pushy and violating, his behavior has created an intimidating space for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a website sweating predator than a genial proprietor .
The Role of the Staff : Complicit or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-owner and frequently seen handling business . Rather than intervening to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a troubling layer to the already poisoned setting at this pub .