The asymmetric Darzens reaction between phenacyl bromides and N-protected isatins was developed to synthesize potentially bioactive spiro-epoxyoxindoles. The optically active products were obtained in moderate to good yields and enantioselectivities catalyzed by chiral N,N鈥?dioxide-Co(acac)2 complexes. A retro-aldol process accompanying the ring-closure step was observed in the process. A chiral control step was determined to be the initial aldol addition.