Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my latest trip at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I discovered behind its doors was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
Cleanliness Issues : Filthy and Disregarded
From the moment I walked in , it was evident that upkeep was not a priority at this establishment . The surfaces were tacky , and a nauseating aroma of decaying beverages and uncleaned toilets filled the entire bar . Smelling a mixture of urine , putrefaction and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the primary feature of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The restroom was in even a truly awful state— clogged , with a broken handle and walls covered in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this bar is a long-standing issue . Many visitors have reported seeing bugs darting across the serving surface and traces of mice in the bar and house area . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns read more about the sanitation of their offerings.
Management’s Behavior : Claims of Unethical Conduct
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I became aware of how distressed several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was horrified to find accusations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women alleging that he of sending indecent material . Described as excessively forward and boundary-crossing , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a unsettling figure than a amiable manager.
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-owner and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of stepping review mastersons bar in to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a troubling layer to the already poisoned setting at the bar .