Heping Island Geopark recently introduced the first Halal-certified restaurant "Moiz Ali" in Keelung City, becoming the only national-level scenic spot with a Halal-certified restaurant. At the same time, partnering with the ecological food space "With Hill" and embracing a unique cuisine experience and sustainability allows tourists to enjoy different foods while exploring the natural beauty, and protecting the biodiversity of Satoyama land and the ocean.
"Moiz Ali" is located on the second floor of the Heping Island Geopark Visitor Center. Chef Ali is from Pakistan and runs the first Halal-certified restaurant in Keelung. The spices used in Moiz Ali are all from Pakistan and India. The chef has developed different flavors of curry, and also designed a variety of meals that are limited to the Heping Island Geopark, infusing this unique delicacy with Heping Island characteristics.
"With Hill" is located at the highest point in Heping Island Geopark – at the Radar Station. Exhibitions and a wide range of activities can be held here, as well as drinks and desserts. It is also a focal point for protecting species in Satoyama, such as Taiwan's endemic bamboo chicken. In addition to the regular removal of invasive plants, a series of desserts and drinks made from one of Taiwan's top 10 invasive species- "Bidens chilensis DC" has been developed, replacing the lemon zest in lemon tart with Salty Flos Grass. In addition to boosting the gentle taste and unique fragrance, it satisfies the appetite of the public while reducing the damage to the environment caused by such invasive species.
Whether tasting Pakistani-style curry noodles or admiring Taiwan's biodiversity at With Hill, Heping Island Geopark has become a truly multicultural international attraction. Visitors can taste delicious food while enjoying the surrounding natural beauty, together with a more in-depth experience of diverse food culture and protecting biodiversity. The combination of unique food and the rich ecology of Heping Island Geopark brings new charm to the area.
"Moiz Ali" is the first Halal-certified restaurant in Keelung. The decorations in the restaurant are all hand-woven by the proprietress, creating the feeling that one is in a foreign country, as Pakistani music echoes in one’s ears.
The spices used by Moiz Ali are from Pakistan and India, presenting the original taste of the area, and designing a variety of delicacies available only in Heping Island Geopark, that can be enjoyed by adults and children alike.
"With Hill" is located at the highest point in Heping Island Geopark, and it is also an excellent scenic spot to take pictures of the sunset.
Bidens chilensis DC. is a common Spanish Needles grass. It was introduced for beekeeping because it blooms throughout the year. However, its strong vitality means it can grow anywhere in Taiwan causing damage.
With Hill uses fair trade coffee beans, milk with animal welfare labels so visitors can make environmentally friendly choices when choosing what to eat and drink.