Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my recent visit at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I found behind its walls was disturbing and far below any standard .
The State of the Venue : Filthy and Disregarded
From the moment I walked in , it was apparent that sanitation was not a priority at Masterson’s . The floors were sticky , and a pungent odor of decaying beverages and filthy restrooms filled the entire pub. Smelling a mixture of ammonia , putrefaction and a sickly smell. The bar area , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and trash that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The bathroom was in even worse condition — backed up, with a cracked flush mechanism and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. After reading through multiple accounts and conversing with residents , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a well-known flaw . Many guests have article reported observing cockroaches darting across the bar area and signs of rats in the adjoining rooms. For a business that offers beverages , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the integrity of the food and drinks .
The Owners’ Conduct : Claims of Misconduct
However, as disturbing 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 corporate position as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I observed how uneasy several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was appalled to find reports against him involving misconduct , with multiple women review mastersons bar citing incidents of harassing them digitally. Described as uncomfortably pushy and violating, his behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a unsettling figure than a amiable manager.
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-manager and frequently seen managing operations . Rather than addressing the issue to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her inaction adds a troubling layer to the already unhealthy environment at Masterson’s .