When you’re a boater looking for a chance to dock and eat, or maybe you just want a view of the lake while you enjoy some live music, you’ve come to the right place.
The Rusty Rudder is one of the newest eateries to make a splash on the shores of Lake Travis.
Opening their doors for lunch and dinner for hungry customers looking to try their original burgers, tacos, pasta and long list of appetizers like chicken wings, queso, and lobster rolls. There’s even a new brunch menu that’s going to be added in the coming weeks.
I made a trip out to the Rusty Rudder one sunny Friday afternoon, ordering a scrumptious bowl of their lobster mac n’ cheese while Jake tried one of their most popular entrees, the Triple B Burger (for beef, bacon and bourbon, oh my.)
I also sprung for their frozen pina colada with a mimosa popsicle, another original treat they offer up to eaters who want to cool down quickly with a cold drink on their huge covered patios.
The whole space has been transformed and expanded, and the view of Emerald Point is a good as ever.
I got to speak with Tre Dotson, one of the partners of the Rusty Rudder, to see what brought the restaurant to Lake Travis and what we can expect to see in the future.
LTL: Tell us a little about how the Rusty Rudder got started.
Tre: Due to the low lake levels and lack of traffic Carlos & Charlie’s closed down for business.
LTL: What brought you to Lake Travis?
Tre: We were able to capitalize on this opportunity after a couple of summers of heavy rains and a location that sat empty. It was an opportunity we couldn’t pass up!
LTL: How did you decide on your menu and food styles?
Tre: We didn’t feel we needed to reinvent the wheel but knew we wanted quality food and and product! We try and source local when it’s possible and for certain ingredients. Our house made salsa uses a variety of locally sourced ingredients.
LTL: What can we expect during a visit to the Rusty Rudder?
Tre: A visit to the Rusty Rudder almost feels like vacation. Our tag line says it all — Where the good times float! Live music, great food and atmosphere!
LTL: What’s your favorite thing about working on Lake Travis?
Tre: What’s not to love about working on the lake. It’s so pretty out here it almost makes up for the long drive! The people are another thing that keeps you in it. You have to love the large demographic of folks you get to meet out here.
So glad this great space is open again!!