Philadelphia Speakeasy Owner Opens “Hoarded” Vault of Rare Spirits for Bargain Pours
Lê, the eccentric and single-named owner of Philadelphia’s Hop Sing Laundromat, has announced he is liquidating a massive personal collection of rare and high-end spirits. After years of “hoarding” bottles ranging from limited-run whiskeys to scarce tequilas, the Chinatown speakeasy proprietor is selling the inventory off 2-ounce pour by 2-ounce pour at significantly reduced prices.
“I’ve been collecting these bottles for years,” Lê told reporters. “At some point, it’s time to let them go.” The sale represents a rare opportunity for connoisseurs to taste spirits that are often impossible to find or prohibitively expensive on the secondary market. Unlike traditional bottle service, these spirits are strictly for on-site consumption, ensuring the inventory goes directly to drinkers rather than collectors or flippers.
Background: The Man Behind the Iron Gate
Hop Sing Laundromat has cultivated a national reputation not just for its cocktails, but for its guarded exclusivity and the personality of its owner. Located behind an unmarked, buzzer-controlled gate on Race Street, the bar is known for stocking what Lê claims is “the most expensive well liquor in the country.”
Lê himself is a polarizing figure in the hospitality industry, known for running his establishment with a dictator-like adherence to protocol. He famously purchased the entire state of Pennsylvania’s allocation of limited-edition Old Overholt rye in 2022 to prevent price-gouging, selling it back to customers at near-cost. This current liquidation appears to be an extension of that philosophy: democratizing access to elite alcohol, provided you play by his rules.
The “Catch”: Strict Rules and Potential Barriers
While the prices may be a bargain, access to the sale comes with significant hurdles that potential patrons must navigate. The “Deep Search” into Hop Sing’s operations reveals several non-negotiable objections for the casual drinker:
Strict Dress Code: Despite relaxing a ban on sneakers years ago, the venue strictly prohibits shorts, sandals, flip-flops, and hats. Lê turns away dozens of people nightly—including celebrities and food critics—for wardrobe violations.
No Photography: The bar enforces a zero-tolerance policy on photography. Pulling out a phone to snap a picture of your rare pour will result in immediate ejection and a permanent spot on Lê’s infamous “ban list,” which currently holds over 5,000 names.
Cash Only: The establishment does not accept credit cards.
The Wait: As a no-reservation venue (for small parties) with a high demand for this new inventory, wait times outside the unmarked gate can be substantial.
Behavioral Protocols: The owner prides himself on maintaining a “safe haven” from rude behavior. Any sign of intoxication or disrespect toward staff leads to an immediate ban.
This liquidation event is expected to draw significant crowds to the 1029 Race Street location. Patrons are advised to arrive early, dress formally, and carry cash if they wish to access the vault.
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