Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my most recent experience at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I found behind its threshold was disturbing and far below any standard .
The State of the Venue : Unhygienic and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I walked in , it was clear that cleanliness was not a priority at this venue. The ground was covered in grime , and a overpowering stench of decaying beverages and neglected washrooms filled the entire bar . Emitting a scent of a mixture of ammonia , a rotting odor and a sickly smell. The serving zone , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and debris that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The toilet was in even worse condition —overflowing , with a cracked flush mechanism and walls covered in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. From reading other reviews and chatting with the community, it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this pub is a recurring complaint. Many patrons have reported seeing website bugs darting across the counter and traces of mice in the basement . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of the food and drinks .
Management’s Behavior : Allegations of Unethical Conduct
However, as appalling as the state of here the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I noticed how uneasy several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As review mastersons bar I asked around, I was alarmed to find accusations against him involving misconduct , with multiple women citing incidents of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as disturbingly assertive and boundary-crossing , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unwelcoming setting for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a unsettling figure than a friendly owner .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Contributing or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen handling business . Rather than addressing the issue to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a disturbing layer to the already unhealthy environment at the bar .