Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , positioned in the vibrant core 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 seem appealing from the exterior , what I discovered behind its entrance was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
Cleanliness Issues : Grimy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was evident that hygiene was not a priority at this bar . The surfaces were tacky , and a pungent odor of decaying beverages and dirty bathrooms filled the entire bar . Smelling a mixture of urine , decay and a sickly smell. The bar area , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and debris that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The lavatory was in even a truly awful state— spilling over , with a shattered handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. After reading through multiple accounts and chatting with the community, it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a persistent problem . Many customers have reported spotting critters darting across the counter and evidence of rodent infestations in the bar and house area . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the quality of here their offerings.
Misconduct by Ownership : Claims of Impropriety
However, as website appalling as the state of the venue was, bar mastersons what truly made my experience at this place something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I observed how distressed several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was appalled to find numerous complaints against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women accusing him of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as uncomfortably pushy and boundary-crossing , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unsafe environment for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a lurking threat than a welcoming host .
Employee Actions : Contributing or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen supervising the venue. Instead of taking action to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her inaction adds a troubling layer to the already poisoned setting at this pub .