Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , 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 found behind its doors was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The Condition of the Premises : Filthy and Neglected
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was evident that hygiene was not a priority at Masterson’s . The surfaces were tacky , and a nauseating aroma of old alcohol and filthy restrooms suffused the entire establishment . Emitting a scent of a mixture of excrement , decay and sour vomit . The main bar, which should be the focal point of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The lavatory was in even a truly awful state— spilling over , with a broken handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was feces.
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 bar is a persistent problem . Many guests have reported witnessing insects darting across the serving surface and traces of mice in the adjoining rooms. For a business that offers beverages , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their products .
The Owners’ Conduct : Accusations of Unethical Conduct
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I observed how distressed several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was horrified to find allegations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women reporting interactions of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as uncomfortably pushy and inappropriate , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unwelcoming setting for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a predatory presence than a friendly owner .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Complicit or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of taking advice action to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her inaction adds a troubling layer to the already dangerous space at the establishment.