Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my latest trip at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I found behind its entrance was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The Condition of the Premises : Unhygienic and Disregarded
From the moment I entered , it was apparent that sanitation was not a priority at this bar . The floors were sticky , and a overpowering stench of uncleaned spills and uncleaned toilets suffused the entire bar . With a smell of a mixture of urine , putrefaction and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and debris that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The restroom was in even a truly awful state—overflowing , with a shattered handle and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. Based on the experiences shared online and conversing with residents , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a well-known flaw . Many patrons have reported seeing bugs darting across the drink station and signs of rats in the basement . For a business that provides refreshments , read more these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the quality of the food and drinks .
The Owners’ Conduct : Accusations of Misconduct
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a stress-testing specialist at bar mastersons Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is tarnished 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 at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was appalled to find allegations against him involving misconduct , with mastersons bar review multiple women accusing him of harassing them digitally. Described as disturbingly assertive and boundary-crossing , his behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a sweating predator than a friendly owner .
The Role of the Staff : Complicit or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-owner and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of stepping in to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a alarming layer to the already unhealthy environment at the establishment.