Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my recent visit at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I experienced behind its entrance was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The Condition of the Premises : Filthy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I stepped inside , it was apparent that cleanliness was not a priority at Masterson’s . The floors were sticky , and a overpowering stench of stale beer and neglected washrooms filled the entire venue . Reeking of a mixture of ammonia , decay and a sickly smell. The counter , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and litter that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The toilet was in even worse condition —overflowing , with a shattered handle and walls covered in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this bar is a recurring complaint. Many customers have reported website observing cockroaches darting across the counter and signs of rats in the basement . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their offerings.
Management’s Behavior : Claims of Inappropriate Actions
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its managers. The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I noticed how distressed several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was stunned to find allegations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women reporting interactions of sending indecent material . Described as excessively forward and violating, Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a unsettling figure than a welcoming host .
Employee Actions : Contributing or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is mastersons bar a co-proprietor and frequently seen handling business . Rather than addressing the issue to resolve the damage click here done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. This complicity adds a disturbing layer to the already poisoned setting at this pub .