A GUNMAN was on the run in Melbourne's eastern suburbs on Tuesday night after an armed robbery in Croydon.

Police were hunting the man, who is believed to have robbed a gaming venue with a partner on Dorset Road about 10am on Tuesday.

Police respond to the armed robbery. Credit:Wayne Hawkins

The pair, who were both armed and wearing disguises, stole cash and were leaving the Dorset Gardens venue when police arrived.

Police recovered a firearm on Mount Dandenong Road about 3.15pm on Tuesday. It is believed the weapon may be linked to the armed robbery. Earlier, a car chase started and one of the offenders pointed a firearm at police while they were being pursued.