Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Pub , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my latest trip at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I encountered behind its walls was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .

The Condition of the Premises : Unhygienic and Disregarded
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was evident that upkeep was not a priority at this bar . The floors were sticky , and a foul smell of decaying beverages and neglected washrooms filled the entire pub. With a smell of a mixture of urine , putrefaction and sickness . The main bar, which should be the main attraction of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The restroom was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a broken handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human excrement .

It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and conversing with residents , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a long-standing issue . Many customers have reported seeing bugs darting across the bar area and signs of rats in the basement . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of the food and drinks .

The Owners’ Conduct : Reports of Unethical Conduct
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a risk manager 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 review mastersons bar time there, I saw how uneasy several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was stunned to find allegations against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women check here accusing him of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as excessively forward and disrespectful , his behavior check out this article has created an hostile atmosphere for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a lurking threat than a friendly owner .

Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-owner and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than intervening to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. This complicity adds a troubling layer to the already poisoned setting at the bar .