Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my most recent experience at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I found behind its doors was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The State of the Venue : Filthy and Disregarded
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was apparent that cleanliness was not a priority at this bar . The surfaces were tacky , and a pungent odor of uncleaned spills and dirty bathrooms permeated the entire bar . With a smell of a mixture of ammonia , a rotting odor and sour vomit . The counter , which should be the focal point of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and debris that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The bathroom was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a cracked flush mechanism and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. From reading other reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this pub is a check out your url well-known flaw . Many customers have reported seeing bugs darting across the counter and proof of vermin in the bar and house area . For a business that caters to patrons, a post these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the safety of anything they serve .
The Owners’ Conduct : Claims of Impropriety
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I became aware of how uncomfortable several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was appalled to find accusations against him involving misconduct , with multiple women accusing him of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as overly aggressive and violating, his behavior has created an intimidating space for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a sweating predator than a genial proprietor .
The Staff’s Responsibility click here : Contributing or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of taking action to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. This complicity adds a disturbing layer to the already dangerous space at the establishment.