Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , nestled in the bustling area 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 experienced behind its doors was appalling and beyond comprehension .
Cleanliness Issues : Squalid and Neglected
From the moment I entered , it was evident that cleanliness was not a priority at this venue. The floorboards were filthy, and a nauseating aroma of old alcohol and filthy restrooms polluted the entire establishment . Smelling a mixture of ammonia , old age and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the focal point of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and trash that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The lavatory was in even a more revolting state — clogged , with a cracked flush mechanism and walls covered in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. From reading other reviews and talking to people around , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a well-known flaw . Many guests have reported witnessing insects darting across the counter and signs of rats in the basement . For a additional resources business that serves drinks , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the integrity of their products .
Misconduct by Ownership : Allegations of Unethical Conduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I noticed how uncomfortable several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was appalled to find numerous complaints against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women alleging that he of harassing them digitally. Described as uncomfortably pushy and boundary-crossing , his actions has created an hostile atmosphere for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a predatory presence than a welcoming host .
The Role of the Staff : Complicit or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-owner and frequently seen managing operations . Rather than intervening to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a alarming layer to the already dangerous space at this pub .