Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my most recent experience at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I discovered behind its entrance was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The State of the Venue : Squalid and Disregarded
From the moment I stepped inside , it was immediately obvious that hygiene was not a priority at this establishment . The floorboards were filthy, and a overpowering stench of decaying beverages and uncleaned toilets filled the entire venue . Reeking of a mixture of excrement , a rotting odor and sour vomit . The counter , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and refuse that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The toilet was in even worse condition — backed up, with a cracked flush mechanism and walls stained in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Based on the experiences shared online and speaking with locals , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a persistent problem . Many visitors have reported seeing bugs darting across the read more drink station and traces of mice in the storage spaces . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the safety of the food and drinks .
Management’s Behavior : Allegations of Unethical Conduct
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I noticed how distressed several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was appalled to find accusations against him involving misconduct , with multiple women reporting interactions of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as overly aggressive and inappropriate , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a unsettling figure than a genial proprietor .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Contributing or Weak?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-owner and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of taking action to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a troubling layer to the already poisoned setting at the bar .