There are few decent places you can go for good lakeside dining, drinking, and entertainment on Lake Norman, but generally, the Rudder is also one of my favorites in the area. I really do consider the establishment more of a hangout joint for drinks more than a place to eat, but I have also solely ate here on occasion.
Drinks are modestly priced, and even on a weekend they usually have some kind of running special, which is always good. The food is ok. It's not bad in the least, but it's also not impressive. Most people can make dishes of equal quality at home with ingredients purchased from their local supermarket. Food cost is a little above what you would expect from the average bar food. As a majority of their dishes are seafood-based, and given its waterfront location, it seems justified.
Nothing compares to soaking in scenery of the lake here on a nice day. If you have a boat on Lake Norman, they usually have a few open boat slips to park the ol' vessel and drop in. They have a great deck, and even with adequate space it does still tend to fill up.
As far as entertainment, they've had live bands most times I've gone on weekends. Service was great. My only complaint is the crowd. It really can be douchebag central here at times. Otherwise, great joint.