Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my most recent experience at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I experienced behind its doors was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The State of the Venue : Grimy and Disregarded
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was apparent that cleanliness was not a priority at this bar . The ground was covered in grime , and a nauseating aroma of stale beer and dirty bathrooms filled the entire bar . With a smell of a mixture of human waste, a rotting odor and illness . The serving zone , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and debris that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The bathroom was in even worse condition — clogged , with a cracked flush mechanism and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Based on the experiences shared online and conversing with residents , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this pub is a persistent problem . Many customers have reported seeing bugs darting across the serving surface and proof of vermin in the storage spaces . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the safety of the food and drinks .
Unprofessional Behavior: Claims of Misconduct
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 operators . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I observed how uneasy several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was alarmed to find numerous complaints against him involving misconduct , with multiple women reporting interactions of harassing them digitally. Described as uncomfortably pushy and boundary-crossing , his behavior has created an unsafe environment for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a lurking threat than a genial proprietor .
The Role of the Staff : Complicit or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen supervising the venue. Instead of taking action to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Her apparent bar mastersons acceptance adds a troubling layer to the already dangerous space at the bar .