Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my recent visit at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I discovered behind its threshold was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The State of Affairs: Grimy and Disregarded
From the moment I stepped inside , it was apparent that hygiene was not a priority at this venue. The floorboards were filthy, and a pungent odor of stale beer and uncleaned toilets suffused the entire establishment . Emitting a scent of a mixture of urine , a rotting odor and illness . The counter , which should be the focal point of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and refuse that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The toilet was in even a truly awful state— spilling over , with a snapped lever and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and talking to people around , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a persistent problem . Many customers have reported spotting critters darting across the drink station and proof of vermin in the adjoining rooms. For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the integrity of the food and drinks .
Management’s Behavior : Accusations of Impropriety
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place unforgettable—in the worst read more possible way —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I became aware of how distressed several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was horrified to find reports against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women accusing him of harassing them digitally. Described as excessively forward and inappropriate , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a unsettling figure than a genial proprietor .
Employee Actions : Part of the Problem or Weak?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-manager and frequently seen managing operations . Rather than intervening to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. This complicity adds a disturbing layer to the already poisoned setting at Masterson’s .