One man needed 20 stitches to a head wound and a second had to have his jaw wired after they were attacked in Brighton last night.
The friends, a 28-year-old local man and a 32-year-old Londoner, had bought a pizza and were outside Browns restaurant in Duke Street, when they were approached by six men.
Two of the men, one armed with a craft knife, lashed out at the victims, cutting one across the forehead.
Both were slashed and repeatedly assaulted before the attackers, both in their thirties, fled into Ship Street.
They were being sought by police today.
The victims were taken to the Royal Sussex County Hospital. The Londoner has been detained to have his broken jaw wired.
The attack happened at about 10.30pm. Witnesses are asked to call 0845 6070999.
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