Learn Italian: Basta così, grazie. - That's enough, thank you.

Yes, basta comes from the verb bastare, which means "to be enough". Just like piacere (to be pleasing), we usually use it in the "it" form. So, basta literally means "it is enough".

What does così mean in this sentence?

Così usually means "like this" or "in this way". Literally, basta così translates to "it is enough like this". Italians use this exact phrase all the time when someone is serving them food or pouring a drink to politely indicate they have the right amount.

Can I just say Basta, grazie and leave out così?

You should be careful! On its own, Basta! can mean a sharp or angry "Stop it!" or "Enough!". Adding così softens the phrase, making it the standard, polite way to say "that's plenty."

How would I use this phrase in a conversation about things I like?

This phrase is perfect for when you are being offered more of a food or drink you enjoy, but you are getting full. You can smoothly combine it with what you've learned by saying: Mi piace, ma basta così, grazie (I like it, but that's enough, thank you).