Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my most recent experience at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I discovered behind its threshold was disturbing and far below any standard .
Cleanliness Issues : Unhygienic and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I stepped inside , it was apparent that upkeep was not a priority at this bar . The floors were sticky , and a nauseating aroma of old alcohol and neglected washrooms filled the entire pub. Reeking of a mixture of urine , a rotting odor and sour vomit . The serving zone , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and trash that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The restroom was in even a truly awful state— clogged , with a broken handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. After reading through multiple accounts and conversing with residents , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this bar is a persistent problem . Many visitors have reported spotting critters darting across the bar area and traces of mice in the bar and house area . For a check source business that serves drinks , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of the food and drinks .
Management’s Behavior : Allegations of Misconduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role browse as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I saw how tense several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was alarmed to find reports against him involving misconduct , with multiple women accusing him of sending indecent material . Described as disturbingly assertive and disrespectful , his behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a predatory presence than a welcoming host .
The Role of the Staff : Contributing or Weak?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-owner and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of stepping in to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her inaction adds a chilling layer to the already dangerous space at the establishment.