Pastabologneseis great,fettuccine Alfredois excellent, but there’s nothing quite like a well-made pasta alla vodka.

Presumably, that’s because of its unique combination of ingredients.

Usually, that includes crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, garlic, onions, and of course, vodka.

penne alla vodka

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Often times, it also gets a dose of chilies.

Some restaurants even throw in crispy pancetta or Italian sausage, too.

The origins of this popular pasta dish are murky.

Brio Italian Grille pasta alla vodka

Brio Italian Grille/Facebook

According to theNew York Times, some believe that Italian actorUgo Tognazzi created the dish in the 1970s.

He has a recipe for a version of it in his cookbook, “L’Abbuffone.”

Others think it first popped up atDante, a restaurant in Bologna, Italy, perBon Appetit.

Shrimp & Scallop Linguine Alla Vodka at Carrabba’s

Carrabba’s Italian Grill/Facebook

No matter its origins, one thing’s for surevodka sauce is a sensation.

Brio Italian Grille Pasta alla Vodka

Brio Italian Grilletakes Italian-American dining to a whole new level.

The pasta alla vodka is my go-to!

cheesecake factory rigatoni vodka

The Cheesecake Factory

Mmmmm, so delicious."

“Hands down the best Italian restaurant ever!

“one Yelp reviewer shared.

Il Fornaio rigatoni alla vodka

Il Fornaio/Facebook

“The food is always perfect.

I’ve tried lots of alla vodka recipes, and I always return to this one.”

“Spicy Rigatoni was the absolute best thing I had,“one Yelp reviewer posted.

Carbone spicy rigatoni vodka

Major Food Group/Facebook

“I don’t like spicy food but this was out of this world.”

The buzzy Italian restaurant chain is known for its bustling yet cozy atmosphere and family-style menu.

It also has a deliciouspenne alla vodkathat’s worth trying.

Penne alla vodka at Carmine’s

Carmine’s Italian Restaurant – Times Square/Facebook

“The Penne alla Vodka here was outstanding,“one Yelp reviewer reported.

“Perfectly cooked pasta with a creamy, flavorful vodka sauce that had just the right kick.

Beautifully presented and seasoned to perfection, it’s a must-try at this charming restaurant.

Rigatoni with vodka sauce at La Pecora Bianca

La Pecora Bianca/Facebook

A delightful culinary experience.”

The restaurant’s version is topped with stracciatella, taking the already delicious dish to the next level.

And just like the Cheesecake Factory, Grand Lux Cafe makes a spicy vodka sauce.

grand lux cafe spicy vodka pasta

Grand Lux Café

“My Hubby had the spicy vodka pasta.

Vodka sauce (red & white), rigatoni & spicy sausage.

The sauce was amazing!

buca di beppo penne alla vodka

Buca di Beppo

“one Yelp reviewer shared.