Emergency service worker allegedly coward punched in random attack in Melbourne

An emergency service worker has told 9News how he was allegedly coward-punched by a stranger while he was dining on a popular strip in Melbourne in a random attack.

Mario Matic has been responding to emergencies for more than 15 years but found himself as the victim last week while out on Faraday Street in Carlton.

He was enjoying a glass of wine with his partner and friend at an outdoor dining area when a man allegedly ran at him and punched him.

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"He sort of skipped up to me, king hit me in the jaw and ran away," he exclusively told 9News.

"I just felt a really sharp pain in my neck. I blacked out for a couple of seconds and then I sort of woke up in my partner's hands."

The 38-year-old lost consciousness and has since been concussed for about a week.

"My first thought was that we'd been hit by a car because I had no idea what had happened," he said.

"It was pretty frightening ... I think I'm very lucky. This could have gone a lot differently"

The alleged attacker then took off his shirt and headed towards Lygon Street - another bustling road lined with restaurants, bars and venues.

Witnesses suspected the man may have been affected by drugs.

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Matic also noted at least five people appeared to be drug-affected in the area about an hour before the alleged attack.

One of them was almost hit by a car.

The alleged attacker is believed to be in his late 20s or 30s with long hair.

Anyone who recognises the man is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.