Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my latest trip at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I encountered behind its entrance was disturbing and far below any standard .
The Condition of the Premises : Squalid and Neglected
From the moment I entered , it was immediately obvious that cleanliness was not a priority at Masterson’s . The surfaces were tacky , and a foul smell of old alcohol and neglected washrooms permeated the entire venue . With a smell of a mixture of ammonia , old age and sickness . The serving zone , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and debris that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The bathroom was in even more deplorable shape — clogged , with a snapped lever and walls covered in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. After reading through multiple accounts and conversing with residents , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a recurring complaint. Many patrons have reported observing cockroaches darting across the serving surface and evidence of rodent infestations in the basement . mastersons bar review For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their products .
Management’s Behavior : Accusations of Inappropriate Actions
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar one I wish I could erase —was breaking news the behavior of its proprietors . 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 corporate world is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I noticed how uncomfortable several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was appalled to find allegations against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women alleging that he of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as excessively forward and boundary-crossing , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a predatory presence than a friendly owner .
The Role of the Staff : Complicit or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-operator and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of stepping in to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her inaction adds a alarming layer to the already unhealthy environment at this pub .