Watch the Mighty Mississippi at Cape’s new rooftop bar and lounge

Top of the Marq, the newest development of the Marquette Tech District in downtown Cape Girardeau promises sweeping views of the Mighty Mississippi.

Downtown Cape Girardeau’s first rooftop restaurant and lounge opens its doors on Friday, July 5 at 4 p.m.

“Almost any big city you go to you’ll see rooftop bars all over the place and I mean who doesn’t want to sit on one, I mean I do,” Keller Ford said.

Ford and several business owners took on the project of transforming the 7th floor of the iconic Marquette Tower.

What to expect at Top of the Marq

Views of the river, downtown Cape Girardeau and the cityscape surround the restaurant from almost every side.

“Being able to get up here and look at it and see the Bill Emerson Bridge there and just overlooking downtown, it just gives you a different perspective. It kind of makes you a little proud to be in Cape Girardeau,” Ford said.

Sip on a glass of wine or specialty cocktail at the bar or on the patio.

Then sit around the table with a “social plate” you’re encouraged to share.

“We chose social plates because of the social experience that we’re really trying to create up here,” John Brown said. “To get people talking, to interact at the tables again, you know to really enjoy being around your friends and family.”

On the menu, you’ll find things like short rib tacos, jerk chicken skewers, and truffle fries.

If you’re feeling really hungry, you might try a “full plate” like a smash burger or a Manhattan Strip.

Some are calling Top of the Marq the crown of the Marquette Tech District.

“It’s all just come together, the whole downtown,” Brown said.

What a better way to enjoy it all then from seven floors up with good food, drink, and company.

Top of the Marq will open daily at 4 p.m.