Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I found behind its threshold was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
Cleanliness Issues : Grimy and Abandoned
From the moment I stepped inside , it was immediately obvious that hygiene was not a priority at this venue. The floorboards were filthy, and a foul smell of uncleaned spills and filthy restrooms filled the entire establishment . Smelling a mixture of urine , old age and sickness . The main bar, which should be the main attraction of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and trash that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The bathroom was in even a truly awful state— clogged , with a snapped lever and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. After reading through multiple accounts and chatting with the community, it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this bar is a persistent problem . check here Many guests have reported witnessing insects darting across the counter and proof of vermin in the bar and house area . For a business that caters to patrons, more info these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of the food and drinks .
The Owners’ Conduct : Reports of Misconduct
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its operators . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I saw how uncomfortable several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I a great read was horrified to find allegations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women citing incidents of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as overly aggressive and inappropriate , his actions has created an unwelcoming setting for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a predatory presence than a amiable manager.
The Role of the Staff : Complicit or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-manager and frequently seen handling business . Rather than addressing the issue to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. This complicity adds a chilling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the bar .