Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my most recent experience at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I encountered behind its threshold was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The State of Affairs: Filthy and Neglected
From the moment I entered , it was immediately obvious that sanitation was not a priority at this bar . The floorboards were filthy, and a foul smell of uncleaned spills and filthy restrooms filled the entire pub. With a smell of a mixture of ammonia , putrefaction and illness . The bar area , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The lavatory was in even a truly awful state— backed up, with a cracked flush mechanism and walls covered in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. After reading through multiple accounts and talking to people around , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a long-standing issue check out this tutorial . Many patrons have reported observing cockroaches darting across the counter and proof of vermin in the adjoining rooms. For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns mastersons bar moonee ponds about the safety of their products .
Management’s Behavior : Claims of Misconduct
However, as disturbing 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 proprietors . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I noticed how uncomfortable several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was alarmed to find allegations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women alleging that he of harassing them digitally. Described as uncomfortably pushy and boundary-crossing , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a lurking threat than a amiable manager.
The Role of the Staff : Part of the Problem or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-owner and frequently seen handling business . Instead of taking action to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a disturbing layer to the already unhealthy environment at this pub .