Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my recent visit at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I experienced behind its doors was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The Condition of the Premises : Grimy and Abandoned
From the moment I stepped inside , it was evident that upkeep was not a priority at Masterson’s . The ground was covered in grime , and a pungent odor of decaying beverages and dirty bathrooms suffused the entire venue . Smelling a mixture of ammonia , putrefaction and sickness . The main bar, which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and trash that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The bathroom was in even a truly awful state— backed up, with a snapped lever and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Based on the experiences shared online and chatting with the community, it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this bar is a recurring complaint. Many visitors have reported spotting critters darting across the serving surface and proof of vermin in the basement . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of the food and drinks click here .
Unprofessional Behavior: Claims of Misconduct
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position 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 distressed several women seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was appalled to find reports against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women accusing him of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as disturbingly assertive and boundary-crossing , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unwelcoming setting for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a lurking threat than a genial proprietor .
Employee Actions : Part of the Problem or Weak?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-manager and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of taking action to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a disturbing layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the bar .