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 resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I experienced behind its walls was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The State of Affairs: Unhygienic and Neglected
From the moment I entered , it was clear that upkeep was not a priority at this establishment . The floorboards were filthy, and a overpowering stench of decaying beverages and filthy restrooms polluted the entire venue . Emitting a scent of a mixture of excrement , decay and a sickly smell. The counter , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The lavatory was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a cracked flush mechanism and walls covered in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. From reading other reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this bar is a long-standing issue . Many customers have reported witnessing insects click here darting across the drink station and evidence of rodent infestations in the basement . For a business that provides refreshments , review mastersons bar these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the integrity of the food and drinks .
Management’s Behavior : Accusations of Unethical Conduct
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I became aware of how distressed several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I here was horrified to find numerous complaints against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women alleging that he of sending indecent material . Described as uncomfortably pushy and boundary-crossing , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an intimidating space for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a predatory presence than a friendly owner .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Complicit or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-owner and frequently seen handling business . Rather than intervening to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a troubling layer to the already poisoned setting at Masterson’s .