Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , positioned in the vibrant core 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 appear inviting from the outside , what I encountered behind its walls was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The State of the Venue : Unhygienic and Abandoned
From the moment I entered , it was evident that hygiene was not a priority at this bar . The ground was covered in grime , and a overpowering stench of old alcohol and dirty bathrooms polluted the entire bar . Reeking of a mixture of ammonia , a rotting odor and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the focal point of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and debris that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The bathroom was in even worse condition — clogged , with a cracked flush mechanism and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a persistent problem . Many customers have reported witnessing insects darting across the drink station another source and proof of vermin in the storage spaces . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are a great read completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of anything they serve .
Misconduct by Ownership : Claims of Unethical Conduct
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue another article was, what truly made my experience at this establishment something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I observed how uneasy several women seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was alarmed to find accusations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women accusing him of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as excessively forward and inappropriate , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a lurking threat than a genial proprietor .
The Role of the Staff : Complicit or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen handling business . Instead of stepping in to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a disturbing layer to the already dangerous space at the bar .