Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my most recent experience at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I encountered behind its threshold was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The Condition of the Premises : Unhygienic and Neglected
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was evident that cleanliness was not a priority at this venue. The floorboards were filthy, and a pungent odor of uncleaned spills and filthy restrooms suffused the entire venue . Smelling a mixture of excrement , old age and a sickly smell. The counter , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and litter that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The bathroom was in even a truly awful state— clogged , with a cracked flush mechanism and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Based on the experiences shared online and chatting with the community, it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a well-known flaw . Many visitors have reported witnessing insects darting across the bar area and evidence of rodent infestations in the adjoining rooms. For a business that offers beverages , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of the food and drinks .
The Owners’ Conduct : Claims of Unethical Conduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his check out here reputation in the professional sphere is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I saw how uneasy several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was alarmed to find accusations against him involving misconduct , with multiple women reporting interactions of sending indecent material . Described as excessively forward and disrespectful , his behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence browse site at the bar often felt more like that of a lurking threat than a welcoming host .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Complicit or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-manager and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of stepping in to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. This complicity adds a chilling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at this pub .