Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my recent visit at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I discovered behind its entrance was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
Cleanliness Issues : Filthy and Abandoned
From the moment I walked in , it was clear that hygiene was not a priority at this venue. The surfaces were tacky , and a foul smell of stale beer and neglected washrooms suffused the entire venue . With a smell of a mixture of ammonia , decay and sour vomit . The bar area , 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 lavatory was in even a truly awful state— clogged , with a snapped lever and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. After reading through multiple accounts and chatting with the community, it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a well-known flaw . Many guests have reported witnessing insects darting across the serving surface and evidence of rodent infestations in the bar and house area . For a business that serves drinks , these issues review mastersons bar are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the quality of their products .
Management’s Behavior : Allegations of Impropriety
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 operators . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I review mastersons bar noticed how distressed several women seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was appalled to find reports against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women reporting interactions of distributing inappropriate website messages . Described as uncomfortably pushy and boundary-crossing , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an intimidating space for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a unsettling figure than a amiable manager.
The Staff’s Responsibility : Involved or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-operator and frequently seen managing operations . Rather than intervening to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her inaction adds a disturbing layer to the already poisoned setting at the establishment.