8-Hydroxyquinoline-based receptors 1–3, containing a trisubstituted triethylbenzene core, were prepared and their binding properties towards glycosides were evaluated. 1H NMR and fluorescence titrations as well as binding studies in two-phase systems, such as dissolution of solid carbohydrates in apolar media and phase transfer of sugars from aqueous into organic solvents, revealed β-vs. α-anomer binding preferences in the ...