THREE men are on the run after trying to rob a pizza restaurant at West Hoxton.

Police have appealed for public assistance to identify the men who burst into the crowded restaurant at about 11.40pm on Friday.

The men, one armed with a knife and another with a metal pole, demanded cash before one of them climbed over the counter and tried to open the cash register.

Described as being of Mediterranean or Middle Eastern appearance, with their faces partially covered, the men fled upon hearing police sirens approaching.