Tensions between the Vietnamese and African communities in Melbourne's north-west are at boiling point, residents say, after a string of petty thefts led to chairs being thrown during a heated street brawl.

Members of the two groups clashed on Christmas Eve, reportedly over cigarettes, outside the Song Huong restaurant on Alfrieda Street in St Albans.

Chairs were used as weapons during the afternoon confrontation that saw Vietnamese shopkeepers and diners battle a group of African-Australian youths.

Frustrated Vietnamese-Australian residents have since taken to social media to vent their frustrations with some posting about their preparedness to arm themselves and fight back.