Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Pub , nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my latest trip at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I discovered behind its walls was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.

The State of Affairs: Squalid and Neglected
From the moment I entered , it was immediately obvious that hygiene was not a priority at this establishment . The ground was covered in grime , and a overpowering stench of uncleaned spills and filthy restrooms filled the entire bar . Emitting a scent of a mixture of ammonia , old age and sickness . The counter , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and debris that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The lavatory was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a broken handle and walls covered in what I can only assume was human waste .

It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. From reading other reviews and talking to people around , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a recurring complaint. Many visitors have reported witnessing insects darting across the counter and evidence of rodent infestations in the storage spaces . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of their offerings.

Management’s Behavior : Reports of Inappropriate Actions
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly here made my experience at this place something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .

During my time there, I observed how tense several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was stunned to find allegations against him involving misconduct , with multiple women citing incidents of sending indecent material . Described as uncomfortably pushy and disrespectful , his actions has created an intimidating space for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a predatory presence than a friendly owner .

The Role of the Staff : Complicit or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-manager and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of stepping in to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. This complicity adds a troubling layer to the already poisoned setting at the establishment.