What Is Waiting to Be Exposed at Masterson’s Bar and Pub ?

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 appear inviting from the outside , what I experienced behind its threshold was disturbing and far below any standard .

Cleanliness Issues : Squalid and Disregarded
From the moment I entered , it was evident that hygiene was not a priority at this bar . The floors were sticky , and a nauseating aroma of stale beer and dirty bathrooms filled the entire venue . Smelling a mixture of ammonia , decay and sour vomit . The bar area , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and debris that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The toilet was in even worse condition —overflowing , with a cracked flush mechanism and walls covered in what I can only assume was feces.

It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this bar is a recurring complaint. Many visitors have reported witnessing insects darting across the drink station and proof of vermin in the basement . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the quality of anything they serve .

Misconduct by Ownership : Accusations of Inappropriate Actions
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in another post the business community is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.

During my time there, I noticed how distressed several women seemed around Cornwell. As I check here. looked into it more , I was appalled to find reports against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women citing incidents of sending indecent material . Described as disturbingly assertive and disrespectful , his behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a sweating predator than a friendly owner .

The Role of the Staff : Involved or Weak?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-manager and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than addressing the issue to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a disturbing layer to the already poisoned setting at the establishment.