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You often see this with Italians, especially when complimenting some food they just ate, but it has evolved into a more universal gesture.

Take the thumb, index, and middle finger, gather them together, bring them to your lips, and kiss them, while moving your arm away and spread your fingers, while saying MWAH!

Is there a single word for this gesture?

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    I don't know for sure, but this video shows a ton of Italian gestures and they're fun. You should see. I've linked it to the relevant part. See if that helps.
    – NVZ ♦
    Commented Apr 29, 2016 at 21:20
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    That's not a gesture used by English-speaking countries so I'm not sure you'd find an English word for it.
    – Kristina Lopez
    Commented Apr 29, 2016 at 21:38
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    It doesn't have to be a pure English word. It could be a borrow.
    – rbp
    Commented Apr 29, 2016 at 22:04

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In English, the word used is ‘chef’s kiss’.

From Dictionary.com:

Chef's kiss is a gesture and expression meant to show something is perfect or excellent. The gesture is made by pinching the fingers and thumb of one hand together (often in an OK sign), kissing them, and then tossing them dramatically away from the lips. Its tone can be sincere or ironic.

chef's kiss

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well I will say: 'magnifico!'

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  • yes, that's the expression! i'm wondering if there's a name for the gesture itself.
    – rbp
    Commented Apr 29, 2016 at 20:55
  • or "che gusto" (What a taste")
    – Graffito
    Commented Apr 29, 2016 at 22:10
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If you call it "finger kiss" or "italian finger kiss" just about everyone will know what you're referring to.

If you want to be correct though, it's "al bacio".

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