Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, 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 look welcoming at first glance , what I experienced behind its entrance was disturbing and far below any standard .
Cleanliness Issues : Filthy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I entered , it was evident that cleanliness was not a priority at this venue. The surfaces were tacky , and a overpowering stench of old alcohol and dirty bathrooms filled the entire bar . With a smell of a mixture of ammonia , a rotting odor and illness . The counter , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and debris 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 walls stained in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. After reading through multiple accounts and chatting with the community, it seems mastersons bar moonee ponds that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a well-known flaw . Many visitors have reported spotting critters darting across the serving surface and proof of vermin in the adjoining rooms. For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the quality of their offerings.
Misconduct by Ownership : Accusations of Impropriety
However, as disturbing 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 proprietors . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional 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 private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I noticed how uneasy several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was horrified to find reports against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women reporting interactions of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as disturbingly assertive and violating, his actions has created an unsafe environment for women who patronize Masterson’s. website His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a predatory presence than a friendly owner .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Weak?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-manager and frequently click here seen supervising the venue. Instead of stepping in to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her inaction adds a troubling layer to the already dangerous space at the bar .