Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my latest trip at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I discovered behind its doors was disturbing and far below any standard .
Cleanliness Issues : Unhygienic and Abandoned
From the moment I walked in , it was immediately obvious that hygiene was not a priority at this bar . The floors were sticky , and a nauseating aroma of old alcohol and dirty bathrooms filled the entire establishment . Smelling a mixture of urine , decay and illness . The counter , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and litter that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The toilet was in even more deplorable shape — clogged , with a broken handle and walls covered in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. From reading other reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a well-known flaw . Many visitors have reported observing cockroaches darting across the bar area and signs of rats in the storage spaces . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of the food and drinks .
The Owners’ Conduct : Claims of Inappropriate Actions
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a risk manager check here at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I noticed how distressed several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was appalled to find allegations against him involving misconduct , with multiple women reporting interactions of harassing them digitally. Described as overly aggressive and inappropriate , his behavior has created an unsafe environment for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a unsettling figure than a amiable manager.
The Staff’s Responsibility : Part of the Problem or Weak?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-manager and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of stepping in to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a troubling check out here layer to the already dangerous space at Masterson’s .