Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Lounge, positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my most recent experience at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I discovered behind its threshold was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.

Cleanliness Issues : Grimy and Neglected
From the moment I entered , it was immediately obvious that sanitation was not a priority at this venue. The floors were sticky , and a nauseating aroma of old alcohol and dirty bathrooms permeated the entire venue . With a smell of a mixture of ammonia , old age and sickness . The serving zone , which should be the focal point of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and debris that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The toilet was in even a more revolting state — spilling over , with a shattered handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human excrement .

It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence 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 well-known flaw . Many guests have reported witnessing insects darting across the website drink station and traces of mice in the basement . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their products .

Management’s Behavior : Reports of Misconduct
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a stress-testing bar mastersons specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .

During my time there, I became aware of how uncomfortable several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was alarmed to find allegations against him involving misconduct , with multiple women reporting interactions of sending indecent material . Described as uncomfortably pushy and disrespectful , his actions has created an hostile atmosphere for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at mastersons bar moonee ponds the bar often appeared as that of a predatory presence than a amiable manager.

Complicity or Powerlessness?: Involved or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-manager and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than addressing the issue to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a alarming layer to the already poisoned setting at this pub .