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 discovered behind its walls was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
Cleanliness Issues : Unhygienic and Disregarded
From the moment I stepped inside , it was apparent that hygiene was not a priority at this bar . The floorboards were filthy, and a overpowering stench of decaying beverages and uncleaned toilets filled the entire bar . Reeking of 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 refuse that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The restroom was in even more deplorable shape —overflowing , with a broken handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Going through other patrons’ 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 seeing bugs darting across the bar area and signs of rats in the storage spaces . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the quality of their offerings.
Unprofessional Behavior: Accusations of Impropriety
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its managers. The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I saw how uncomfortable several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I mastersons bar moonee ponds was appalled to find numerous complaints against him involving misconduct , with multiple women alleging that he of harassing them digitally. Described as disturbingly assertive and boundary-crossing , his behavior has created an intimidating space for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a sweating more info predator than a friendly owner .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Complicit or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-operator and frequently seen handling business . Instead of stepping in to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her inaction adds a troubling layer to the already dangerous space at the establishment.