Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my most recent experience at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I experienced behind its doors was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The Condition of the Premises : Squalid and Disregarded
From the moment I entered , it was immediately obvious that sanitation was not a priority at this establishment . The surfaces were tacky , and a pungent odor of old alcohol and uncleaned toilets suffused the entire pub. With a smell of a mixture of human waste, a rotting odor and sour vomit . The main bar, which should be the focal point of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and litter that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The toilet was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a snapped lever and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. From reading other reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a long-standing issue . Many guests have reported witnessing insects darting across the serving surface and traces of mice in the adjoining rooms. For a business that serves drinks , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the safety of their products .
Unprofessional Behavior: Claims of Unethical Conduct
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its operators . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During read more my time there, I saw how distressed several women seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was alarmed to find allegations against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women accusing him of harassing them digitally. Described as overly aggressive and inappropriate , his actions has created an hostile atmosphere for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a lurking threat than a friendly owner .
The Role of the Staff : Involved or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen managing operations . Rather than intervening to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. This complicity adds a troubling layer to the already poisoned setting at Masterson’s .