Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Pub , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my most recent experience at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I discovered behind its entrance was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .

The State of Affairs: Unhygienic and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was evident that hygiene was not a priority at this bar . The ground was covered in grime , and a pungent odor of uncleaned spills and uncleaned toilets filled the entire venue . Emitting a scent of a mixture of ammonia , decay and a sickly smell. The counter , which should be the focal point of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and debris that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The restroom was in even a more revolting state —overflowing , with a cracked flush mechanism and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human excrement .

It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a long-standing issue . Many customers have reported witnessing insects darting across the serving surface and signs of rats in the basement . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the safety of their products .

The Owners’ Conduct : Accusations of Misconduct
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings a post .

During my time there, I saw how distressed several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was appalled to find accusations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women citing incidents of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as uncomfortably pushy and inappropriate , his actions has created an intimidating space for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a sweating predator than a genial proprietor .

Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-owner and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of taking action to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her inaction adds a disturbing layer to the already toxic atmosphere at Masterson’s .