Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my recent visit at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I encountered behind its threshold was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
Cleanliness Issues : Filthy and Disregarded
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was evident that upkeep was not a priority at Masterson’s . The floors were sticky , and a pungent odor of old alcohol and filthy restrooms suffused the entire bar . Reeking of a mixture of excrement , old age and sickness . The serving zone , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and litter that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The restroom was in even a more revolting state — spilling over , with a broken handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Based on the experiences shared online and talking to people around , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this pub is a well-known flaw . Many guests have reported observing cockroaches darting across the mastersons bar moonee ponds counter and proof of vermin in the storage spaces . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of anything they serve .
Management’s Behavior : Claims of Impropriety
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I noticed how uneasy several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was alarmed to find numerous complaints against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women reporting interactions of harassing them digitally. Described as disturbingly assertive and inappropriate , his behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a predatory presence than a genial proprietor .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Complicit or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of stepping in to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. This complicity adds a disturbing layer to the already toxic atmosphere at this pub .