Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Tavern , nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my most recent experience at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I discovered behind its entrance was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.

Cleanliness Issues : Grimy and Neglected
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was immediately obvious that sanitation was not a priority at this bar . The floorboards were filthy, and a pungent odor of uncleaned spills and neglected washrooms polluted the entire pub. Reeking of a mixture of ammonia , decay and sour vomit . The bar area , 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 more deplorable shape — backed up, with a shattered handle and walls covered in what I can only assume was fecal matter .

It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a long-standing issue . Many patrons have reported observing cockroaches darting across the serving surface and signs of rats in the bar and house area . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of anything they serve .

Unprofessional Behavior: Reports of Unethical Conduct
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my check over here experience at this establishment one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .

During my time there, I became aware of how uncomfortable several women seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was alarmed to find accusations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women citing incidents of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as disturbingly assertive and violating, his behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a unsettling bar mastersons figure than a friendly owner .

Complicity or Powerlessness?: Complicit or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-operator and frequently seen supervising the venue. Rather than intervening to read more mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her inaction adds a chilling layer to the already dangerous space at the establishment.