Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my latest trip at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I found behind its entrance was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
Cleanliness Issues : Filthy and Disregarded
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was clear that cleanliness was not a priority at Masterson’s . The surfaces were tacky , and a foul smell of stale beer and uncleaned toilets suffused the entire establishment . Smelling a mixture of ammonia , putrefaction and sickness . The main bar, which should be the focal point of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and debris that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The restroom was in even a more revolting state —overflowing , with a shattered handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and conversing with residents , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this bar is a recurring complaint. Many guests have reported spotting critters darting across the serving surface and proof of vermin in the adjoining rooms. For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of the food and drinks .
The Owners’ Conduct : Allegations of Unethical Conduct
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I observed how distressed several women at the bar check seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was horrified to find accusations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women citing incidents of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as disturbingly assertive and boundary-crossing , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a unsettling figure than a friendly owner .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Part of the Problem or Weak?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-owner and frequently seen supervising the venue. Instead of stepping in to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to check here accept his behavior. Her inaction adds a troubling layer to the already unhealthy environment at the bar .