Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my latest trip at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I discovered behind its threshold was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The State of Affairs: Unhygienic and Disregarded
From the moment I entered , it was evident that cleanliness was not a priority at this venue. The ground was covered in grime , and a pungent odor of old alcohol and dirty bathrooms polluted the entire bar . Smelling a mixture of ammonia , old age and sour vomit . The counter , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and litter that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The toilet was in even more deplorable shape — backed up, with a snapped lever and walls stained in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and talking to people around , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a recurring complaint. Many customers have reported spotting critters darting across the drink station and traces of mice in the adjoining rooms. For a business that provides refreshments , these bar mastersons issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of anything they serve .
The Owners’ Conduct : Claims of Misconduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at website the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I saw how uncomfortable several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was horrified to find allegations against him involving misconduct , with multiple women reporting interactions of harassing them digitally. Described as excessively forward and inappropriate , his actions has created an unwelcoming setting for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a lurking threat than a amiable manager.
The Role of the Staff : Involved or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than addressing the issue to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a alarming layer to the already poisoned setting at this pub read more .