Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my recent visit at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I encountered behind its walls was disturbing and far below any standard .
Cleanliness Issues : Squalid and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I entered , it was apparent that cleanliness was not a priority at this establishment . The surfaces were tacky , and a overpowering stench of uncleaned spills and filthy restrooms suffused the entire bar . Smelling a mixture of excrement , old age and a sickly smell. The bar area , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and litter that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The lavatory was in even a more revolting state — spilling over , with a shattered handle and walls covered in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. After reading through multiple accounts and talking to people around , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this bar is a persistent problem . Many customers have reported seeing bugs darting across the counter and traces of mice in the adjoining rooms. For read more a business that provides refreshments , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the quality of their products .
Unprofessional Behavior: Claims of Misconduct
However, as disturbing 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 owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I observed how distressed several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was horrified to find accusations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women citing incidents of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as uncomfortably pushy and inappropriate , his behavior has created an intimidating space for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a sweating predator than a welcoming host .
Employee Actions : Involved or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-operator and frequently seen managing operations . Rather than intervening to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she read more seems to endorse his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a chilling layer to the already poisoned setting at the bar .