Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Masterson’s Lounge, nestled in the bustling area 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 appear inviting from the outside , what I experienced behind its walls was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.

The Condition of the Premises : Filthy and Abandoned
From the moment I entered , it was evident that cleanliness was not a priority at this venue. The floors were sticky , and a nauseating aroma of old alcohol and dirty bathrooms suffused the entire bar . Reeking of a mixture of human waste, decay and sour vomit . The counter , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The toilet was in even more deplorable shape — clogged , with a broken handle and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was human excrement .

It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a persistent problem . Many patrons have reported spotting critters darting across the counter and evidence of rodent infestations in the basement . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns click here about the safety of their products .

The Owners’ Conduct : Reports of Impropriety
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my advice experience at this place stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.

During my time there, I saw how distressed several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was appalled to find accusations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women reporting interactions of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as uncomfortably pushy and violating, his actions has created an intimidating space for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a predatory presence than a amiable manager.

Employee at this website Actions : Complicit or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of stepping in to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her inaction adds a alarming layer to the already dangerous space at Masterson’s .