Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Pub , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I experienced behind its entrance was appalling and beyond comprehension .

Cleanliness Issues : Squalid and Abandoned
From the moment I walked in , it was evident that upkeep was not a priority at this bar . The surfaces were tacky , and a overpowering stench of decaying beverages and uncleaned toilets permeated the entire bar . Reeking of a mixture of excrement , putrefaction and a sickly smell. The bar area , which should be the focal point of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The restroom was in even a more revolting state —overflowing , with a shattered handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was fecal matter .

It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. From reading other reviews and chatting with the community, it seems that mastersons bar moonee ponds the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a long-standing issue . Many guests have reported spotting critters darting across the bar area and evidence of rodent infestations in the adjoining rooms. For a business that serves drinks , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation blog of their offerings.

The Owners’ Conduct : Claims of Impropriety
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly another source made my experience at Masterson’s Pub something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its operators . The bar is run 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 business dealings and personal conduct.

During my time there, I noticed how distressed several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was alarmed to find accusations against him involving misconduct , with multiple women citing incidents of sending indecent material . Described as uncomfortably pushy and violating, his actions has created an unsafe environment for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a unsettling figure than a genial proprietor .

The Staff’s Responsibility : Part of the Problem or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-owner and frequently seen supervising the venue. Rather than addressing the issue to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. This complicity adds a troubling layer to the already dangerous space at the establishment.