Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my most recent experience at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I encountered behind its threshold was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The State of the Venue : Filthy and Abandoned
From the moment I stepped inside , it was immediately obvious that hygiene was not a priority at this bar . The floorboards were filthy, and a pungent odor of stale beer and filthy restrooms permeated the entire venue . Smelling a mixture of ammonia , decay and a sickly smell. The counter , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and litter that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The lavatory was in even more deplorable shape — clogged , with a snapped lever and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. After reading through multiple accounts and talking to people around , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this pub is a persistent problem . Many visitors have reported witnessing insects darting across the counter and proof of vermin in the adjoining rooms. For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the safety of the food and drinks .
Unprofessional Behavior: Claims of Inappropriate Actions
However, as appalling 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 run 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 here clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I saw how tense several women seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was horrified to bar mastersons find numerous complaints against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women accusing him of harassing them digitally. Described as excessively forward and boundary-crossing , his behavior has created an intimidating space for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a unsettling figure than more info a welcoming host .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Contributing or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of taking action to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a disturbing layer to the already dangerous space at Masterson’s .