Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Tavern , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my most recent experience at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I encountered behind its threshold was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .

Cleanliness Issues : Squalid and Neglected
From the moment I stepped inside , it was evident that sanitation was not a priority at this venue. The floorboards were filthy, and a overpowering stench of uncleaned spills and dirty bathrooms polluted the entire bar . Emitting a scent of a mixture of human waste, putrefaction and illness . The serving zone , which should be the focal point of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and litter that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The bathroom was in even a more revolting state — clogged , with a broken handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was fecal matter .

It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. From reading other reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a recurring complaint. Many visitors have reported seeing bugs darting across the serving surface and proof of vermin in the storage spaces . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of their products .

The Owners’ bar mastersons Conduct : Allegations of Unethical Conduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its proprietors . 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 financial sector is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.

During my time there, I saw how uncomfortable several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was horrified to find numerous complaints against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women accusing him of sending indecent material . Described as uncomfortably pushy and disrespectful , his actions has created an intimidating space for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a lurking threat than a amiable manager.

The Staff’s Responsibility : Part of the Problem or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen supervising the venue. Rather than intervening to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her inaction adds a chilling layer to the already unhealthy environment at the establishment.