Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my latest trip at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I encountered behind its entrance was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The State of Affairs: Unhygienic and Disregarded
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was apparent that hygiene was not a priority at Masterson’s . The floorboards were filthy, and a nauseating aroma of old alcohol and neglected washrooms polluted the entire bar . With a smell of a mixture of human waste, decay and a sickly smell. The counter , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and refuse that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The restroom was in even a truly awful state—overflowing , with a snapped lever and walls stained in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and conversing with residents , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this bar is a persistent problem . Many visitors have reported seeing bugs darting across the drink station and signs of rats in the basement . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their offerings.
Misconduct by Ownership : Accusations of Unethical Conduct
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation more info 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 patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was horrified to find numerous complaints against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women accusing him of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as excessively forward and inappropriate , his actions has created an intimidating space for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a unsettling figure than a genial proprietor .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Contributing or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-owner and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than intervening to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like mastersons bar review she supports his behavior. This here complicity adds a alarming layer to the already poisoned setting at the bar .