Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my most recent experience at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I discovered behind its doors was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
Cleanliness Issues : Squalid and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was evident that upkeep was not a priority at this bar . The ground was covered in grime , and a nauseating aroma of uncleaned spills and dirty bathrooms suffused the entire bar . With a smell of a mixture of human waste, old age and illness . The counter , which should be the focal point of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and litter that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The restroom was in even more deplorable shape — spilling over , with a cracked flush mechanism and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and chatting with the community, it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a persistent problem . Many customers have reported observing cockroaches darting across the counter and signs of rats in the basement . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the quality of their products .
Unprofessional Behavior: Accusations of Inappropriate Actions
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly review mastersons bar made my experience at the bar one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I noticed how tense several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was alarmed to find numerous complaints against him involving misconduct , with multiple women accusing him of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as uncomfortably pushy and inappropriate , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a lurking threat than a welcoming host .
Employee Actions : Involved or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian a fantastic read , is a co-owner and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of stepping in to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a alarming layer to the already unhealthy environment at Masterson’s .