Since its founding, Hendersonville has been known as the City by the Lake. Every year, thousands of locals and tourists flock to the area to enjoy fun times both on and off Old Hickory Lake.
After a long day on the water, many folks like to gather their friends and family together for drinks and dinner by the lake. One of the most popular places for lakeside dining is The Rudder. Situated in the heart of Anchor High Marina, The Rudder is widely renowned for its great food, signature drinks, live entertainment and outstanding customer service. Whether they arrive by boat or by car, guests are always assured of having a memorable experience.
Recently, Hendersonville Lifestyle recently visited with owners Patrick and Zach Patton to find out how they have transformed The Rudder into one of the city’s signature destinations.
How did you get into the restaurant industry?
“We started working for our dad, Pat Patton, while in college. In 2012, he assumed ownership of The Rudder. We continued working with him there until 2013-14, when we each decided to pursue careers outside of the family business. However, our dad passed unexpectedly in June 2021, and we were thrust right back into the business then, and we are very grateful to be able to continue his legacy.”
Why Hendersonville?
“We grew up in Goodlettsville and Hendersonville. This area has always been home.”
What makes The Rudder different from other local restaurants?
“The Rudder is a destination restaurant, and it is difficult to find a better setting any time of year. It feels like vacation when we are here, and we want our customers to feel that way as well.”
What are some of your most popular menu items?
“We feature two menus throughout the year – summer and winter, and we love that we are able to offer a variety of items that go along with the season. For example, on our summer menu, we feature Fish Tacos, Hot Crab Dip (2024 Taste of Hendersonville Best Appetizer winner), the Smash Burger and our crispy Fish n' Chips. On our winter menu, we showcase such favorites as our Ale Pork Chop, Jalapeno Chicken Pasta, Shrimp n' Grits and Brussels Sprouts (2023 Taste of Hendersonville Best Side Dish winner).”
What can customers expect from an evening out at The Rudder?
“Every evening at The Rudder provides a lighthearted, fun, family experience with incredible food and great service.”
Do you have facilities to host private events?
“Yes, we do. During the winter season, we offer many options for private events, and we love hosting local businesses and community members for whatever event they are celebrating. While this is more difficult for us to do during the summer season, we have been known to make exceptions for smaller events.”
How often do you have live entertainment at The Rudder?
“During summer, we have live music every night we are open (Tuesdays through Sundays), and during the winter, we have live music on Friday and Saturday evenings, as well as live trivia on Wednesday nights.”
How has your business bounced back after the December 2023 tornado?
“2024 was a difficult year for The Rudder, but we were very fortunate compared to many of our neighbors in the community, specifically Anchor High Marina, where all the docks were destroyed. The marina reopened this year, and having the boats back has been a much-welcomed sight. We have had great support from the community, and we are grateful to call Hendersonville home.”
What is the most important lesson that you have learned from your business?
“First, how you treat people will always determine how you are remembered. No one is perfect, and everyone makes mistakes. However, showing respect and kindness will always find common ground, and help to foster meaningful relationships with customers and employees. Second, business and life are more enjoyable when you are surrounded by people you love and trust. We put a lot of faith in our team at The Rudder, and it is a blessing to have them representing us.”
The Rudder
126 River Road,
Hendersonville, TN 37075
615.348.0129
"The Rudder provides an opportunity to put your daily stresses to the side for a few hours, and break bread with good friends and live music."
"As a locally owned and operated business, we pride ourselves on being a staple of the Hendersonville community, and we look forward to continuing to serve our friends and neighbors for many years to come."
Patrick and Zach Patton