Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Tavern , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my most recent experience at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I found behind its walls was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.

The Condition of the Premises : Grimy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was evident that sanitation was not a priority at Masterson’s . The floorboards were filthy, and a foul smell of stale beer and uncleaned toilets filled the entire establishment . Reeking of a mixture of urine , a rotting odor and sour vomit . The serving zone , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and litter that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The restroom was in even a more revolting state — spilling over , with a snapped lever and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human excrement .

It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. After reading through multiple accounts and talking to people around , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this pub is a long-standing issue . Many patrons have reported observing cockroaches darting across the counter and evidence of rodent infestations in the basement . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the quality of their offerings.

Unprofessional Behavior: Reports of Misconduct
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place one I wish I could erase —was the behavior click here of its managers. The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .

During my time there, I noticed how distressed several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was stunned to find numerous complaints against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women accusing him of sending indecent material . Described as overly aggressive and boundary-crossing , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unwelcoming setting for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a lurking threat than a friendly owner .

Employee Actions : Part of the Problem or Weak?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-manager and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of taking action to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. This complicity adds a alarming layer to the already dangerous space at the establishment.