Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Lounge, located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my recent visit at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I encountered behind its walls was appalling and beyond comprehension .

Cleanliness Issues : Filthy and Neglected
From the moment I entered , it was evident that sanitation was not a priority at this venue. The floors were sticky , and a foul smell of old alcohol and filthy restrooms filled the entire bar . Emitting a scent of a mixture of ammonia , a rotting odor and a sickly smell. The counter , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and refuse that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The restroom was in even a truly awful state— backed up, with a cracked flush mechanism and walls covered in what I can only assume was fecal matter .

It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Based on the experiences shared online and conversing with residents , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a well-known flaw . Many customers have reported seeing bugs darting across the counter and signs of rats 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 .

The Owners’ Conduct : Claims of Misconduct
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its managers. The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .

During my time there, I observed how tense several women seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was stunned to find allegations against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women accusing him of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as excessively forward and inappropriate , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an hostile atmosphere for women who frequent Masterson’s. more info His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a unsettling figure than a welcoming host .

Employee Actions : Complicit or Weak?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-owner and frequently seen handling business . Instead of taking action to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. This complicity adds a disturbing layer to the already dangerous space at here Masterson’s .