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 resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I discovered behind its walls was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The Condition of the Premises : Unhygienic and Neglected
From the moment I walked in , it was evident that cleanliness was not a priority at this establishment . The floorboards were filthy, and a overpowering stench of uncleaned spills and neglected washrooms permeated the entire pub. Emitting a scent of a mixture of excrement , decay and sickness . The counter , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and trash that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The bathroom was in even worse condition — clogged , with a cracked flush mechanism and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. From reading other reviews and conversing with residents , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a long-standing issue . Many customers have reported witnessing insects darting across the counter and proof of vermin in the adjoining rooms. For a business that serves drinks , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of the food and drinks .
Unprofessional Behavior: Claims of Unethical Conduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I saw how uneasy several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was appalled to find accusations against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women citing incidents of sending unsolicited explicit content . breaking news Described as excessively forward and violating, Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an intimidating space for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a lurking threat than a friendly owner .
Employee Actions : Contributing or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen managing operations . Rather than addressing the issue to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a disturbing layer check here to the already toxic atmosphere at the establishment.