A man is said to be in a stable condition after being attacked outside a restaurant on Capel Street at around 2am last night.
The man, originally from China, sustained serious injuries to his back, head and leg after being attacked by several men with hammers and knives outside a restaurant and karaoke bar.
A second man, who is also Chinese, was also taken to the Mater hospital last night, but his injuries are not said to be life threatening.
Gardaí are trying to establish a motive for the attack and said investigations are ongoing. They are examining CCTV footage and have appealed for witnesses or anyone with information, particularly people from the Chinese community, to come forward.
They are asked to contact Store Street Garda station on 01 6668000 or the Garda confidential line on 1800-666111.
Additional reporting: PA