Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , positioned in the vibrant core 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 appear inviting from the outside , what I found behind its threshold was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The State of Affairs: Filthy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I walked in , it was immediately obvious that cleanliness was not a priority at this venue. The ground was covered in grime , and a pungent odor of stale beer and filthy restrooms filled the entire venue . With a smell of a mixture of ammonia , putrefaction and sour vomit . The main bar, which should be the focal point of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and litter that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The toilet was in even worse condition — spilling over , with a broken handle and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. After reading through multiple accounts and chatting with the community, it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this bar is a long-standing issue . Many guests have reported seeing bugs darting across the serving surface and proof of vermin in the adjoining rooms. For a business that provides review mastersons bar refreshments , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of the food and drinks .
The Owners’ Conduct : Allegations of Unethical Conduct
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 proprietors . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I noticed how tense several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was horrified to find allegations against him involving misconduct , with multiple women accusing him of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as uncomfortably pushy and disrespectful , his actions has created an unwelcoming setting for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a lurking threat than a friendly owner .
Employee Actions : Involved or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-operator and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of stepping in to alleviate the damage done by her website husband’s actions, she appears to condone his review mastersons bar behavior. Her inaction adds a alarming layer to the already poisoned setting at Masterson’s .