Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my recent visit at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I encountered behind its entrance was appalling and beyond comprehension .
Cleanliness Issues : Unhygienic and Neglected
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was immediately obvious that cleanliness was not a priority at Masterson’s . The ground was covered in grime , and a pungent odor of decaying beverages and filthy restrooms polluted the entire venue . With a smell of a mixture of ammonia , a rotting odor and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the primary feature of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and debris that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The bathroom was in even more deplorable shape —overflowing , with a cracked flush mechanism and walls stained 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 conversing with residents , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this bar is a well-known flaw . Many customers have reported spotting critters darting across the bar area and proof of additional resources vermin in the bar and house area . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the quality of anything they serve .
Unprofessional Behavior: Claims of Inappropriate Actions
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I noticed how distressed several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was horrified to find accusations against him involving misconduct , with multiple women reporting interactions of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as disturbingly assertive and boundary-crossing , his behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of additional information a predatory presence than a welcoming host .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Involved or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-manager and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of taking action to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her inaction adds a disturbing layer to the already dangerous space at the establishment.