A regioselective one-pot synthesis of 2-aryl benzimidazoles, benzoxazoles and benzthiazoles has been achieved in excellent isolated yields under ambient conditions using the ionic liquids, 1-butylimidazolium tetraflouroborate ([Hbim]BF4) and 1,3-di-n-butylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([bbim]BF4) as reaction media and promoters. There was no need for the use of an additional catalyst normally employed in the methodologies reported so far. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.