What Is Under Lock and Key at Masterson’s Famed Hideaway ? Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5
Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my recent visit at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I experienced behind its entrance was disturbing and far below any standard .
The State of the Venue : Filthy and Disregarded
From the moment I entered , it was apparent that hygiene was not a priority at this venue. The floorboards were filthy, and a overpowering stench of stale beer and uncleaned toilets filled the entire bar . Reeking of a mixture of ammonia , a rotting odor and sour vomit . The bar area , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and refuse that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The restroom was in even more deplorable shape — clogged , with a snapped lever and walls covered in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Based on the experiences shared online and talking to people around , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this bar is a recurring complaint. Many guests have reported seeing bugs darting across the drink station and traces of mice in the bar and house area . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of their offerings.
The Owners’ Conduct : Reports of Unethical Conduct
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional check out this tutorial role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I saw how uncomfortable several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was appalled to find numerous complaints against him involving misconduct , with multiple women reporting interactions of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as uncomfortably pushy and boundary-crossing , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unwelcoming setting for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a sweating predator than a welcoming host .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Involved or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-manager and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of taking action to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a alarming layer to the already dangerous space at the establishment.