Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

The Infamous Masterson’s , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my latest trip at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I found behind its doors was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.

The State of the Venue : Unhygienic and Neglected
From the moment I walked in , it was clear that cleanliness was not a priority at this bar . The floorboards were filthy, and a nauseating aroma of decaying beverages and dirty bathrooms suffused the entire venue . Smelling a mixture of ammonia , old age and sour vomit . The main bar, which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and debris that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The lavatory was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a broken handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was feces.

It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. From reading other reviews and talking to people around , it mastersons bar moonee ponds seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this pub is a recurring complaint. Many patrons have reported observing cockroaches darting across the counter and signs of rats in the basement . For a a post business that offers beverages , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their offerings.

Misconduct by Ownership : Claims of Misconduct
However, as mastersons bar review disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.

During my time there, I saw how uneasy several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was horrified to find accusations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women reporting interactions of harassing them digitally. Described as disturbingly assertive and boundary-crossing , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an intimidating space for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a sweating predator than a welcoming host .

Complicity or Powerlessness?: Contributing or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of stepping in to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a chilling layer to the already dangerous space at the establishment.