Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I found behind its entrance was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
Cleanliness Issues : Grimy and Neglected
From the moment I entered , it was clear that upkeep was not a priority at Masterson’s . The floors were sticky , and a overpowering stench of old alcohol and uncleaned toilets suffused the entire venue . Emitting a scent of a mixture of human waste, old age and sickness . The main bar, which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and trash that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The restroom was in even worse condition —overflowing , with a shattered handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. Based on the experiences shared online and speaking with locals , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this bar is a well-known flaw . Many visitors have reported observing cockroaches darting across the serving surface and evidence of rodent infestations in the basement . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the safety of their offerings.
The Owners’ Conduct : Reports of Impropriety
However, as dreadful as the state blog of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of bar mastersons its operators . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time check it out there, I became aware of how distressed several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was alarmed to find numerous complaints against him involving misconduct , with multiple women alleging that he of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as uncomfortably pushy and disrespectful , his actions has created an intimidating space for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a unsettling figure than a amiable manager.
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Contributing or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-owner and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of taking action to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her inaction adds a disturbing layer to the already poisoned setting at the establishment.