Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

The Infamous Masterson’s , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my latest trip at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I experienced behind its doors was appalling and beyond comprehension .

Cleanliness Issues : Grimy and Disregarded
From the moment I walked in , it was apparent that upkeep was not a priority at this bar . The ground was covered in grime , and a foul smell of old alcohol and neglected washrooms filled the entire bar . Reeking of a mixture of excrement , a rotting odor and sour vomit . The main bar, which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and litter that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The restroom was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a cracked flush mechanism and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human waste .

It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this bar is a persistent problem . Many guests have reported witnessing insects darting across the counter and proof of vermin in the adjoining rooms. For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the quality of the food and drinks .

Misconduct by Ownership : Reports of Impropriety
However, as check here dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its operators . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a stress-testing specialist at here Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.

During my time there, I became aware of how distressed several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was stunned to find accusations against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women citing incidents of harassing them digitally. Described as excessively forward and violating, his actions has created an intimidating space for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a unsettling figure than a friendly owner .

Complicity or Powerlessness?: Involved or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-manager and frequently seen supervising the venue. Instead of stepping in to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a troubling layer to the already poisoned setting at this pub .