Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Lounge, positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my most recent experience at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I discovered behind its entrance was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.

The Condition of the Premises : Grimy and Abandoned
From the moment I stepped inside , it was clear that cleanliness was not a priority at this establishment . The ground was covered in grime , and a pungent odor of old alcohol and uncleaned toilets polluted the entire venue . Smelling a mixture of ammonia , old age and sickness . The bar area , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and debris that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The bathroom was in even more deplorable shape — backed up, with a broken handle and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was fecal matter .

It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. After reading through multiple accounts and talking to people around , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this pub is a well-known flaw . Many patrons have reported seeing bugs darting across the counter and proof of vermin in the adjoining rooms. For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of the food and drinks .

Misconduct by Ownership : Reports of Impropriety
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the browse pub and beyond .

During my time there, I noticed how uneasy several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was appalled to find allegations against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women accusing him of sending check indecent material . Described as disturbingly assertive and disrespectful , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an intimidating space for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a blog predatory presence than a amiable manager.

The Role of the Staff : Complicit or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-manager and frequently seen handling business . Instead of stepping in to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. This complicity adds a alarming layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the establishment.