Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The Infamous Masterson’s , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my most recent experience at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I experienced behind its doors was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The State of the Venue : Filthy and Disregarded
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was apparent that sanitation was not a priority at Masterson’s . The ground was covered in grime , and a nauseating aroma of decaying beverages and neglected washrooms permeated the entire venue . Emitting a scent of a mixture of excrement , putrefaction and a sickly smell. The serving zone , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and litter that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The restroom was in even worse condition — backed up, with a snapped lever and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Based on the experiences shared online and talking to people around , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this bar is a well-known flaw . Many guests have reported seeing bugs darting across the bar area and proof of vermin in the basement . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise mastersons bar serious concerns about the integrity of the food and drinks .
Unprofessional Behavior: Claims of Inappropriate Actions
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, review mastersons bar I observed how distressed several women seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was appalled to find numerous complaints against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women alleging that he of harassing them digitally. Described as uncomfortably pushy and inappropriate , his behavior has created an intimidating space for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a predatory presence than a welcoming host .
Employee Actions : Contributing or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen handling business . Instead of stepping in to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse mastersons bar review his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a alarming layer to the already unhealthy environment at Masterson’s .