Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Lounge, positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my recent visit at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I encountered behind its threshold was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .

Cleanliness Issues : Grimy and Abandoned
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was clear that sanitation was not a priority at this establishment . The ground was covered in grime , and a foul smell of old alcohol and dirty bathrooms permeated the entire establishment . Emitting a scent of a mixture of ammonia , putrefaction and illness . The serving zone , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and debris that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The toilet was in even worse condition —overflowing , with a snapped lever and walls covered in what I can only assume was fecal matter .

It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. After reading through multiple accounts and talking to people around , it seems click here that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this pub is a long-standing issue . Many visitors have reported witnessing insects darting across the bar area and signs of rats in the basement . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their products .

Management’s Behavior : Reports of Misconduct
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector 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 dug deeper , I another source was appalled to find numerous complaints against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women alleging that he of sending indecent material . Described as excessively forward and violating, Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a lurking threat than a welcoming host .

Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-operator and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of stepping in to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a chilling layer to the already dangerous space at the establishment.