Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my latest trip at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I discovered behind its threshold was disturbing and far below any standard .
Cleanliness Issues : Filthy and Disregarded
From the moment I walked in , it was apparent that hygiene was not a priority at this establishment . The ground was covered in grime , and a nauseating aroma of stale beer and uncleaned toilets permeated the entire venue . With a smell of a mixture of excrement , putrefaction and sour vomit . The main bar, which should be the primary feature of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and refuse that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The restroom was in even worse condition — backed up, with a shattered handle and walls covered in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. From reading other reviews and talking to people around , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a well-known flaw . Many guests have reported observing cockroaches darting across the counter and traces of mice 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 .
Management’s Behavior : Accusations of Misconduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I saw how distressed several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was horrified to find numerous complaints against him involving misconduct , with multiple women accusing him of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as excessively forward and inappropriate , his actions has created an unwelcoming setting for women who check here frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a sweating predator than a genial proprietor .
The Role of the Staff : Involved or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of stepping in to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a troubling layer to the already poisoned setting at the bar .