Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Pub , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my latest trip at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I found behind its walls was appalling and beyond comprehension .

Cleanliness Issues : Grimy and Disregarded
From the moment I walked in , it was clear that upkeep was not a priority at this establishment . The floors were sticky , and a pungent odor of decaying beverages and filthy restrooms suffused the entire establishment . With a smell of a mixture of ammonia , a rotting odor and illness . The counter , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and debris that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The toilet was in even a more revolting state — clogged , with a shattered handle and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human excrement .

It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and conversing with residents , 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 evidence of rodent infestations in the storage spaces . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the safety of their offerings.

The Owners’ Conduct : Reports of Unethical Conduct
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its owners . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.

During my time there, I observed how distressed several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was appalled to find allegations against him involving misconduct , with multiple women accusing him of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as disturbingly assertive and violating, Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an intimidating space for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a predatory presence than a genial proprietor .

The Staff’s Responsibility : Complicit or Weak?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-manager and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than intervening to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a alarming layer to the already poisoned click here setting at Masterson’s .