Asymmetric base hydrolysis of α-chiral esters with synthetic small-molecule catalysts is described. Quaternary ammonium salts derived from quinine were used as chiral phase-transfer catalysts to promote the base hydrolysis of N-protected aminoacid hexafluoroisopropyl esters in a CHCl3/NaOH (aq) via dynamic kinetic resolution, providing the corresponding products in moderate to good yields (up to 99%)