Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Pub , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my most recent experience at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I encountered behind its entrance was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
Cleanliness Issues : Filthy and Disregarded
From the moment I walked in , it was evident that sanitation was not a priority at this establishment . The floors were sticky , and a foul smell of decaying beverages and filthy restrooms polluted the entire pub. With a smell of a mixture of excrement , a rotting odor and a sickly smell. The counter , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and debris that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The restroom was in even a truly awful state—overflowing , with a snapped lever and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. After reading through multiple accounts and chatting with the community, it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this pub is a recurring complaint. Many customers have reported spotting critters darting across the serving surface and evidence of rodent infestations in the bar and house area . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the safety of their offerings.
Unprofessional Behavior: Accusations of Impropriety
However, as horrifying 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 managers. The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I noticed how uncomfortable several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was horrified to find reports against him involving sexual check here harassment , with multiple women reporting interactions of harassing them digitally. Described as uncomfortably pushy and disrespectful , his behavior has created an unsafe environment for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a unsettling figure than a welcoming host .
The Role of the Staff : Part of the Problem click here or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-proprietor and frequently seen supervising the venue. Instead of stepping in to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her inaction adds a alarming layer to the already unhealthy environment at the establishment.