Albert-1Welcome to Chinatown
Meet Albert Lam Bespoke
Albert Lam Bespoke has been open since 1978, by Albert and his wife. They've served generations of customers, earning a national reputation for expertly-crafted suits.
"My wife and I emigrated from Hong Kong to NYC’s Chinatown in the late 1970s. When I first arrived, I apprenticed with an Italian tailor to learn his craft while working at a local garment factory to support my family. In 1978, my wife and I decided to open a tailor shop to sell handmade men’s suits. Even though my wife and I didn’t have high school degrees or speak English, we were able to open our own shop because the Chinese community gave us multiple resources and support channels." - Albert
Determination
For over 40 years, they worked 7 days a week, eventually attracting customers like former mayor Dinkins and Ronny Chieng. With this work ethic, they sent all 3 children to college.
Albert Lam Bespoke (2021-01-17) by Fuxuan XinWelcome to Chinatown
Gentrification
After 35 years of business, their original landlord raised their rent by 100%, forcing Albert Lam Bespoke to move to a new location.
"We must save Chinatown. Due to this rapid gentrification, I moved to a shop on the 5th floor at Bowery/Canal. I hope to stay and survive the pandemic."
Customers
Albert's business thrived through word-of-mouth, and customers come from all walks of life.
"My wife and I have made the finest hand-made suits for families across generations — from grandfathers to fathers, sons, and grandsons."
Albert Lam Bespoke Portrait 2 (2021-01-17) by Fuxuan XinWelcome to Chinatown
Chinatown community
"As a Chinatown business owner for over 40 years, I interact with local Chinese-owned businesses on a daily basis. Chinatown is where I get everything done: from daily meals to banking, haircuts, accountant, grocery stands, hardware shops, and doctors."
"Chinatown is an essential part of my life, as well as thousands of New Yorkers from all backgrounds, colors, creeds, and walks of life.”
Albert-9Welcome to Chinatown
Learn more
Read the full interview at https://welcometochinatown.com/news/business-spotlight-albert-lam-bespoke-63el6
And get your next suit at Albert Lam Bespoke, located at 80 Bowery, Suite 500
Photos courtesy of Fuxuan Xin
Interview by Nicole Lam
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