Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my latest trip at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I discovered behind its entrance was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
Cleanliness Issues : Filthy and Neglected
From the moment I stepped inside , it was evident that hygiene was not a priority at this establishment . The floorboards were filthy, and a pungent odor of decaying beverages and neglected washrooms filled the entire pub. Emitting a scent of a mixture of ammonia , decay and sour vomit . The serving zone , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and trash that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The restroom was in even a more revolting state — clogged , 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 speaking with locals , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this bar is a persistent problem . Many visitors have reported spotting critters darting across the bar area and evidence of rodent infestations in the basement . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their offerings.
The get more info Owners’ Conduct : Accusations of Misconduct
However, as appalling 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 operated 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 private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I noticed how uncomfortable several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was alarmed to find reports against him involving inappropriate advances, here with multiple women accusing him of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as disturbingly assertive and disrespectful , his actions has created an unwelcoming setting for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a predatory presence than a read more friendly owner .
The Role of the Staff : Contributing or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-owner and frequently seen handling business . Rather than intervening to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. This complicity adds a alarming layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the establishment.