Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Lounge, positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my latest trip at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I experienced behind its threshold was appalling and beyond comprehension .

The Condition of the Premises : Squalid and Neglected
From the moment I walked in , it was clear that upkeep was not a priority at this venue. The ground was covered in grime , and a pungent odor of old alcohol and dirty bathrooms permeated the entire establishment . Reeking of a mixture of excrement , putrefaction and a sickly smell. The counter , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and debris that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The lavatory was in even a more revolting state — clogged , with a cracked flush mechanism and walls stained in what I can only assume was human excrement .

It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and talking to people around , review mastersons bar it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this pub is a well-known flaw . Many customers have reported spotting critters darting across the serving surface and traces of mice in the adjoining rooms. For a business that offers beverages , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the safety of their offerings.

The Owners’ Conduct : Accusations of Inappropriate Actions
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .

During my time there, I observed how tense several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was appalled to find allegations against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women alleging that he of harassing them digitally. Described as uncomfortably pushy and violating, Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unwelcoming setting for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a sweating predator than a friendly check out this website owner .

Employee Actions : Contributing or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-manager and frequently seen handling business . Instead browse of taking action to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. This complicity adds a troubling layer to the already dangerous space at the establishment.