Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Lounge, positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my most recent experience at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I experienced behind its entrance was appalling and beyond comprehension .

The State of Affairs: Squalid and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I walked in , it was apparent that hygiene was not a priority at this venue. The surfaces were tacky , and a foul smell of uncleaned spills and uncleaned toilets permeated the entire establishment . Emitting a scent of a mixture of urine , decay and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the main attraction of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and trash that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The toilet was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a cracked flush mechanism and walls covered in what I can only assume was feces.

It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Based on the experiences shared online and chatting with the community, it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at here this so-called establishment is a long-standing issue . Many customers have reported witnessing insects darting across the serving surface and signs of rats in the basement . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the safety of anything they serve .

The Owners’ Conduct : Allegations of Impropriety
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .

During my time there, I observed how uncomfortable website several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was horrified to find allegations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women accusing him of sending indecent material . Described as overly aggressive and inappropriate , Peter Cornwell’s behavior has created an unsafe environment for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a unsettling figure than a friendly owner .

Complicity or Powerlessness?: Complicit or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than addressing the issue to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a chilling layer to the already poisoned setting at Masterson’s .