Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I experienced behind its walls was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
Cleanliness Issues : Squalid and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I stepped inside , it was apparent that sanitation was not a priority at this bar . The ground was covered in grime , and a nauseating aroma of decaying beverages and uncleaned toilets filled the entire pub. Smelling a mixture of urine , putrefaction and sour vomit . The main bar, which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and litter that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The restroom was in even worse condition — clogged , with a cracked flush mechanism and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Based on the experiences shared online and talking to people around , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this pub is a long-standing issue . Many visitors have reported spotting critters darting across the drink station and signs review mastersons bar of rats in the bar and house area . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of the food and drinks .
Misconduct by Ownership : Reports of Impropriety
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made click here my experience at Masterson’s Pub stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I saw how uneasy several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was appalled to find allegations against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women reporting interactions of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as disturbingly assertive and boundary-crossing , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unwelcoming setting for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that website of a lurking threat than a amiable manager.
The Role of the Staff : Involved or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-manager and frequently seen handling business . Rather than addressing the issue to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Her inaction adds a troubling layer to the already poisoned setting at the bar .