Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Pub , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my most recent experience at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I encountered behind its doors was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.

The State of Affairs: Filthy and Disregarded
From the moment I stepped inside , it was apparent that hygiene was not a priority at this establishment . The surfaces were tacky , and a pungent odor of old alcohol and filthy restrooms permeated the entire bar . Emitting a scent of a mixture of excrement , old age and sickness . The counter , which should be the focal point of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The lavatory was in even worse condition —overflowing , with a snapped lever and walls stained in what I can only assume was human waste .

It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. From reading other reviews and conversing with residents , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this bar is a well-known flaw . Many guests have reported seeing bugs darting across the serving surface and evidence of rodent infestations in the adjoining rooms. For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of the food and drinks .

Unprofessional Behavior: Reports of Unethical Conduct
However, as appalling as the state here of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. a post Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .

During my time there, I observed how distressed several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was stunned to find numerous complaints against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women alleging that he of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as uncomfortably pushy and inappropriate , his behavior has created an unsafe environment for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a sweating predator than a amiable manager.

The Staff’s Responsibility : Part of the Problem or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-manager and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of stepping in to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a disturbing layer to the already poisoned setting at the bar .