The man and his two friends, all believed to be Spanish nationals, were caught up in a brawl.

They left the scene and caught a taxi back to their hotel in The Rocks following the fight.

It was there, at the Shangri-La on Cumberland St, that the victim realised he had been stabbed, and his friends called for an ambulance and notified police.

The stabbing is said to have occurred between 2.30am-3am across from Kings Cross McDonalds on Darlinghurst Rd.

A crime scene was established in the area and forensic officers examined the scene.

The man was taken to St Vincents hospital for treatment and was released a few hours later.

Inspector Damian Lodge with The Rocks police said the victims two friends suffered "superficial injuries" during the brawl.

Police today appealed for any witnesses to the fight to come forward.

Anyone with information should call Kins Cross