Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my recent visit at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I experienced behind its doors was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The Condition of the Premises : Unhygienic and Neglected
From the moment I stepped inside , it was immediately obvious that upkeep was not a priority at this bar . The ground was covered in grime , and a overpowering stench of old alcohol and neglected washrooms polluted the entire bar . With a smell of a mixture of human waste, decay and sickness . The main bar, which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and refuse that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The restroom was in even a truly awful state—overflowing , with a snapped lever and walls stained in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. From reading other reviews and talking to people around , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a long-standing issue . Many customers have reported seeing bugs darting across the serving surface and proof of vermin in the storage spaces . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the quality of the food and drinks .
Misconduct by Ownership : Allegations of Impropriety
However, as disturbing 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 managers. The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I became aware of how uneasy several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was stunned to find reports against him involving more info misconduct , with multiple women alleging that he of harassing them digitally. Described as uncomfortably pushy and inappropriate , his behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a sweating predator than a amiable manager.
The Staff’s Responsibility : Involved or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-operator and frequently seen handling business . Instead of stepping in mastersons bar to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. This complicity adds a alarming layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the bar .