Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Pub , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my most recent experience at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I experienced behind its entrance was disturbing and far below any standard .

Cleanliness Issues : Grimy and Neglected
From the moment I entered , it was clear that cleanliness was not a priority at Masterson’s . The surfaces were tacky , and a pungent odor of old alcohol and dirty bathrooms suffused the entire bar . Smelling a mixture of human waste, old age and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the primary feature of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and debris that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The lavatory was in even worse condition — clogged , with a cracked flush mechanism and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human excrement .

It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. From reading other reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a recurring complaint. Many patrons have reported observing cockroaches darting across the bar area and signs of rats in the adjoining rooms. For a business that serves drinks , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the quality of anything they serve .

Misconduct by Ownership : Reports of Unethical Conduct
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place stand bar mastersons out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a financial oversight professional 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 observed how uncomfortable several women seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was alarmed to find reports against him involving misconduct , with multiple women accusing him of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as uncomfortably pushy and inappropriate , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an hostile atmosphere for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a website predatory presence than a welcoming host .

The Role of the Staff : Complicit or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen handling business . Instead of stepping in to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a disturbing layer to the already poisoned setting at Masterson’s .