Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Tavern , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , 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 .

The Condition of the Premises : Squalid and Disregarded
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was clear that upkeep was not a priority at this establishment . The floorboards were filthy, and a nauseating aroma of old alcohol and dirty bathrooms suffused the entire establishment . Reeking of a mixture of excrement , a rotting odor 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 been ignored for a long time . The bathroom was in even a truly awful state—overflowing , with a shattered handle and walls covered in what I can only assume was human excrement .

It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. From reading other reviews and talking to people around , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a recurring complaint. Many customers have reported spotting critters darting across the bar area and signs of rats in the adjoining rooms. For a business that serves drinks , these issues are completely click here unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the safety of their offerings.

The Owners’ Conduct : Claims of Impropriety
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its operators . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.

During my time there, I observed how distressed several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was appalled to find numerous complaints against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women accusing him of sending indecent material . Described as uncomfortably pushy and violating, his behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a sweating predator than a friendly owner .

The Role of the Staff : Involved or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-proprietor and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of taking action to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her inaction adds a disturbing layer to the already mastersons bar dangerous space at Masterson’s .