Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my recent visit 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 walls was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
Cleanliness Issues : Grimy and Neglected
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was apparent that cleanliness was not a priority at this establishment . The floorboards were filthy, and a overpowering stench of decaying beverages and neglected washrooms filled the entire establishment . With a smell of a mixture of excrement , a rotting odor and sour vomit . The main bar, which should be the focal point of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and litter that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The toilet was in even more deplorable shape — clogged , with a shattered handle and tiles smeared 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 talking to people around , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this pub is a long-standing issue . Many patrons have reported spotting critters darting across the drink station and signs of rats in the basement . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of their products .
The Owners’ Conduct : Reports of Misconduct
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I became aware of how distressed several women seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was appalled to find reports against him involving misconduct , with multiple women accusing him of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as uncomfortably pushy and inappropriate , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an hostile atmosphere for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a predatory presence than mastersons bar review a genial proprietor .
The Role of the Staff : Involved or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-manager and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of taking action to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a chilling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the establishment.