Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I encountered behind its doors was disturbing and far below any standard .
Cleanliness Issues : Unhygienic and Neglected
From the moment I entered , it was clear that sanitation was not a priority at this establishment . The floorboards were filthy, and a foul smell of uncleaned spills and uncleaned toilets permeated the entire establishment . Reeking of a mixture of excrement , old age and illness . The main bar, which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and trash that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The bathroom was in even a more revolting state — clogged , with a snapped lever and walls covered in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Based on the experiences shared online and chatting with the community, it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a long-standing issue . Many customers have reported spotting critters darting across the counter and signs of rats in the adjoining rooms. For a business that offers beverages , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of the food and drinks .
The Owners’ Conduct mastersons bar moonee ponds : Accusations of Unethical Conduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its owners . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is marred by a mastersons bar disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my mastersons bar review time there, I observed how distressed several women seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was alarmed to find allegations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women citing incidents of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as uncomfortably pushy and inappropriate , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unsafe environment for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a unsettling figure than a welcoming host .
Employee Actions : Contributing or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of taking action to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her inaction adds a alarming layer to the already dangerous space at Masterson’s .