Victoria Police has released the image of a man after conservative newspaper columnist and TV host Andrew Bolt was attacked outside a Carlton restaurant last week.

Bolt was set upon by two men who had their faces covered outside on Lygon Street, near Argyle Place East, about 12:15pm on June 6.

Police said the two men, who were wearing hooded jumpers, threw glitter and what they believe was shaving cream at Bolt.

Footage, which later circulated on social media, showed a man wearing a backpack run at Bolt and spray him, before a short scuffle broke out.

One of the men, wearing a blue and white beanie, police want to speak to after the attack. ( Supplied: Victoria Police )

The footage showed Bolt fighting back, punching and kicking one of the men.

Tables and chairs were pushed across the footpath during the fight, before the two men fled.

Another man at the scene filmed the attack.

Police have released an image of one of the men they want to speak to over the attack who is seen wearing a blue and white beanie.

No-one was injured, police said.

Bolt said he had been temporarily blinded after being sprayed in the face.

After the attack, Bolt said public figures should be able to walk down the street without being attacked or abused.

He said there was hostility in Melbourne towards conservatives and threats were regularly made against him and his family, but this time he was "not going to take it" and punched back.

Bolt said he wanted the attackers to pay for the damage to his suit, and make a substantial donation to Very Special Kids, which provides respite care for children.

Anyone with information has been urged to contact Crime Stoppers.