Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my recent visit at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I experienced behind its walls was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The Condition of the Premises : Filthy and Abandoned
From the moment I stepped inside , it was clear that cleanliness was not a priority at this venue. The floors were sticky , and a overpowering stench of uncleaned spills and filthy restrooms filled the entire venue . Smelling a mixture of excrement , old age and illness . The counter , which should be the focal point of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The toilet was in even a more revolting state — clogged , with a snapped lever and walls stained in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this pub review mastersons bar is a well-known flaw . Many guests have reported spotting critters darting across the bar area and evidence of rodent infestations in the basement . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of anything they serve .
Unprofessional Behavior: Accusations of Unethical Conduct
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub one I wish I mastersons bar moonee ponds could erase —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I observed how uncomfortable several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was alarmed to find numerous complaints against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women accusing him of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as excessively forward and boundary-crossing , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an intimidating space for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a sweating predator than a amiable manager.
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen managing operations . Rather than addressing the issue to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a troubling layer to the already dangerous space at Masterson’s .