Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I discovered behind its entrance was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The Condition of the Premises : Unhygienic and Neglected
From the moment I stepped inside , it was evident that sanitation was not a priority at this bar . The surfaces were tacky , and a overpowering stench of stale beer and neglected washrooms filled the entire pub. Smelling a mixture of ammonia , decay and a sickly smell. The bar area , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and litter that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The lavatory was in even more deplorable shape —overflowing , with a cracked flush mechanism and walls stained in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. From reading other reviews and chatting with the community, it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this pub is a long-standing issue . Many patrons have reported spotting critters darting across the drink station and proof of vermin in the adjoining here rooms. For a business that offers mastersons bar review beverages , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of their products .
The Owners’ Conduct : Claims of Impropriety
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I observed how distressed several women seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was horrified to find numerous complaints against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women accusing him of sending indecent material . Described as disturbingly assertive and violating, his actions has created an unwelcoming setting for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a unsettling figure than a genial proprietor .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Contributing or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen managing operations . Rather than intervening to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her inaction adds a chilling layer to the already toxic atmosphere at Masterson’s .