The asymmetric hydrogenation of α-keto esters using the Pt-Al2O3 catalyst modified with cinchona alkaloid has been studied. The hydrogenation of methyl pyruvate in benzene containing a small amount of quinine with the catalyst modified by quinine gave (R)-(+)-methyl lactate in 86.8% optical yield. (R)-(-)-Ethyl mandelate was obtained in 83.9% optical yield by hydrogenation of ethyl benzoylformate with the catalyst modified by cinchonidine in benzene or diethyl ether without any additive.