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 resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I experienced behind its walls was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The State of the Venue : Squalid and Neglected
From the moment I entered , it was immediately obvious that sanitation was not a priority at this venue. The floorboards were filthy, and a overpowering stench of stale beer and uncleaned toilets filled the entire bar . Reeking of a mixture of ammonia , old age and a sickly smell. The serving zone , which should be the focal point of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and refuse that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The lavatory was in even a more revolting state —overflowing , with a broken handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. After reading through multiple accounts and talking to people around , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a recurring complaint. Many customers have reported spotting critters darting across the serving surface and evidence of rodent infestations in the storage spaces . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are completely mastersons bar review unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the safety of anything they serve .
The Owners’ Conduct : Reports of Inappropriate Actions
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, 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 professional role as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is overshadowed by a read more disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I became aware of how tense several women seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was horrified to find allegations against him involving misconduct , with multiple women accusing him website of sending indecent material . Described as overly aggressive and disrespectful , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an hostile atmosphere for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a sweating predator than a welcoming host .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Contributing or Weak?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-operator and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than addressing the issue to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a chilling layer to the already poisoned setting at this pub .