Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my latest trip at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I encountered behind its entrance was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The Condition of the Premises : Filthy and Neglected
From the moment I stepped inside , it was evident that cleanliness was not a priority at this establishment . The floors were sticky , and a pungent odor of old alcohol and dirty bathrooms permeated the entire bar . Emitting a scent of a mixture of urine , old age and a sickly smell. The serving zone , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and litter that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The restroom was in even more deplorable shape —overflowing , with a snapped lever and walls stained in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Based on the experiences shared online 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 guests have reported spotting critters darting across the bar area and signs of rats in the basement . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the safety of their offerings.
Unprofessional Behavior: Claims of Misconduct
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub one I wish I could erase —was the additional reading behavior of its operators . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I became aware of how uneasy several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was stunned advice to find reports against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women accusing him of sending indecent material . Described as disturbingly assertive and boundary-crossing , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a lurking threat than a welcoming host .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Involved or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-operator and frequently seen supervising the venue. Instead of taking action to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her inaction adds a troubling layer to the already unhealthy environment at the bar .