Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my recent visit at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I experienced behind its threshold was disturbing and far below any standard .
The Condition of the Premises : Unhygienic and Neglected
From the moment I stepped inside , it was apparent that cleanliness was not a priority at Masterson’s . The surfaces were tacky , and a overpowering stench of decaying beverages and dirty bathrooms filled the entire venue . Reeking of a mixture of ammonia , a rotting odor and a sickly smell. The bar area , which should be the focal point of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and litter that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The bathroom was in even worse condition —overflowing , with a snapped lever and walls stained in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Based on the experiences shared online and speaking with locals , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a long-standing issue . Many guests have reported spotting critters darting across the serving surface and signs of rats in the bar and house area . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the quality of anything they serve .
The Owners’ Conduct : Claims of Inappropriate Actions
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I noticed how distressed several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was horrified to find numerous complaints against him involving misconduct , with multiple women reporting interactions of sending indecent material . Described as overly aggressive and boundary-crossing , his actions has created an intimidating space for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a sweating predator than a friendly owner .
Employee Actions : Contributing or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is click here a co-proprietor and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of taking action to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a troubling layer to the already poisoned setting at the establishment.