Microbiological production of 2,3-butanediol (2,3-BD) through fermentation using renewable feedstock is a promising option for the production of bio based chemicals. Liquid-liquid extraction could be a more efficient process, if a proper solvent is used. Tetraoctyl ammonium 2-methyl-1-naphthoate [TOA MNaph] is a tailor made hydrophobic ionic liquid that may be applied for the recovery of 2,3-BD from aqueous streams. In this work, the (liquid + liquid) equilibrium data for {2,3-BD + water + [TOA MNaph]} at (313.2, 333.2, and 353.2) K have been obtained and correlated to the NRTL and UNIQUAC activity coefficient models. Root square mean deviations (RMSD) values of 1.54% (NRTL) and 1.88% (UNIQUAC) were obtained, showing that both models can properly describe the experimental data. Compared to conventional solvents [TOA MNaph] presents a good balance between distribution coefficient (D-2,D-3BD = 1.08) and selectivity (S = 11.47). (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.