Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my most recent experience at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I encountered behind its walls was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The Condition of the Premises : Grimy and Disregarded
From the moment I stepped inside , it was apparent that hygiene was not a priority at this bar . The ground was covered in grime , and a foul smell of decaying beverages and filthy restrooms polluted the entire venue . Emitting a scent of a mixture of human waste, a rotting odor and sickness . The main bar, which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and litter that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The restroom was in even more deplorable shape — spilling over , 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 chatting with the community, it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this bar is a recurring complaint. Many visitors have check here reported witnessing insects darting across the drink station and proof of vermin in the adjoining rooms. For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the safety of their offerings.
The Owners’ Conduct : Accusations of Inappropriate Actions
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment 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 financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I noticed how tense several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was alarmed to find numerous complaints against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women alleging that he of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as excessively forward and violating, his behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a predatory presence than a welcoming host .
The Role of the Staff : Complicit or Weak?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-operator and frequently seen handling business . Rather than addressing the issue to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. This complicity adds a chilling layer to the already dangerous space at the bar .