Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Tavern , nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my most recent experience at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I experienced behind its entrance was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .

The Condition of the Premises : Squalid and Abandoned
From the moment I stepped inside , it was evident that upkeep was not a priority at this bar . The surfaces were tacky , and a foul smell of old alcohol and neglected washrooms filled the entire pub. Emitting a scent of a mixture of ammonia , old age and a sickly smell. The serving zone , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and debris that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The bathroom was in even worse condition — clogged , with a snapped lever and walls stained in what I can only assume was feces.

It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. Based on the experiences shared online additional resources and speaking with locals , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a persistent problem . Many patrons have reported witnessing insects darting across the bar area and proof of vermin in the bar and house area . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the safety of the food and drinks .

Misconduct by Ownership : Reports of Unethical Conduct
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub one I wish I could erase check here —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.

During my time there, I saw how uncomfortable several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was horrified to find allegations against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women accusing him of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as disturbingly assertive and violating, his actions has created an unwelcoming setting for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a predatory presence than a welcoming host .

The Staff’s Responsibility : Contributing or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-operator and frequently seen managing operations . Rather than addressing the issue to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. This complicity adds a chilling layer to the already dangerous space at the bar .