Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my most recent experience at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I encountered behind its threshold was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
Cleanliness Issues : Squalid and Disregarded
From the moment I entered , it was evident that hygiene was not a priority at this bar . The floorboards were filthy, and a foul smell of stale beer and uncleaned toilets polluted the entire establishment . Reeking of a mixture of human waste, old age and illness . The bar area , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and refuse that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The toilet was in even more deplorable shape — spilling over , with a broken handle and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this bar is a long-standing issue . Many guests have reported spotting critters darting across the bar area and proof of vermin in the adjoining rooms. For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of the food and drinks website .
Unprofessional Behavior: Reports of Misconduct
However, as appalling 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 stress-testing specialist 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 became aware of how distressed several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was appalled to find accusations against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women alleging that he of harassing them digitally. Described as excessively forward and boundary-crossing , his actions has created an intimidating space for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a lurking threat than a amiable manager.
The Role of the Staff : Contributing or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-owner and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather review mastersons bar than intervening to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a chilling layer to the already dangerous space at the bar .