Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Lounge, nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my latest trip at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I encountered behind its threshold was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The State of Affairs: Filthy and Disregarded
From the moment I stepped inside , it was evident that cleanliness was not a priority at this venue. The surfaces were tacky , and a nauseating aroma of old alcohol and filthy restrooms suffused the entire pub. Reeking of a mixture of human waste, a rotting odor and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the main attraction of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and litter that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The restroom was in even a truly awful state— backed up, with a shattered handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. From reading other reviews and talking to people around , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this pub is a well-known flaw . Many patrons have reported seeing bugs darting across the bar area and traces of mice in the adjoining rooms. For a business that serves drinks , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the integrity of their offerings.
Unprofessional Behavior: Accusations of Inappropriate Actions
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my more info experience at the here bar one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I saw how tense several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was alarmed to find reports against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women accusing him of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as excessively forward and boundary-crossing , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a sweating predator than a genial proprietor .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-operator and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of stepping in to resolve the damage done by her husband’s here actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a disturbing layer to the already unhealthy environment at the bar .