Portuguese Phrase
Oi, tenho uma reserva.
Meaning
Literally “Hi, I have a reservation.” The speaker is letting the listener know that they have already booked a place – usually a hotel room, a restaurant table, or a ticket – and is ready to be checked in or seated.
When to use
Use this phrase at the front desk of a hotel, when arriving at a restaurant, or when contacting a service that requires a prior booking. It works best after a brief greeting and before giving any additional details (name, date, etc.).
✦Grammar Breakdown
Oitenhoumareserva
Oi
An informal greeting equivalent to “hi”. It’s common in Brazil but can sound too casual in formal settings.
tenho
First‑person singular present of the verb *ter* (to have). Use *tenho* when you are the speaker.
uma
Indefinite article for feminine singular nouns. It matches the gender of *reserva*.
reserva
A feminine noun meaning “reservation” (for a table, room, ticket, etc.).
🗨In Conversation
Oi, tenho uma reserva.
Hi, I have a reservation.
Claro, qual o seu nome, por favor?
Sure, what’s your name, please?
✕Common Mistakes
Oi, tem uma reserva.
Use *tenho* (I have) instead of *tem* (you/he/she has).
Oi, tenho um reserva.
The noun *reserva* is feminine, so the article must be *uma*.
Oi tenho reserva.
Add a comma after *Oi* and the article *uma* for natural flow.
↔Alternatives
Olá, fiz uma reserva.
Hello, I made a reservation.
Bom dia, tenho uma reserva para esta noite.
Good morning, I have a reservation for tonight.
Boa tarde, gostaria de confirmar a minha reserva.
Good afternoon, I’d like to confirm my reservation.
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, *Oi* is perfectly acceptable in most casual contexts, but at upscale hotels or formal restaurants you might prefer *Olá* or *Bom dia/tarde/noite* to show politeness. Always have your reservation confirmation number handy, as staff often ask for it after you state you have a reservation.