The suspect yelled homophobic slurs at his victim during the violent attack.

A gay man was shoved headfirst into a restaurant window in what police are investigating as a hate crime.

Police say the suspect shouted homophobic and racist slurs at his victim, before shoving his head against the window of the restaurant in Greenwich Village, New York City.

Although the window did not break, the man was seriously injured and is believed to be recovering in hospital.

Authorities are yet to reveal any further details about the attack or what led to it, but say the motive was clear.

The area’s community has been quick to condemn the attack, with politicians and activists taking to the streets in a bid to catch the suspect.

Community leaders were also seen handing out fliers showing the attacker’s face, in a bid to reassure people that the are is a safe one.

“In Greenwich Village, the most tolerant neighbourhood in the world, we’re going to stand up for our neighbours and make sure the perpetrator is caught,” said State Senator Brad Hoylman

“We have to send a message loud and clear that this is unacceptable in our neighbourhood,” added Councilwoman Margaret Chin.

CCTV images have been released by police in connection with the incident.

The assailant is believed to be about 6’0″ tall and to weigh about 240 pounds.

NYPD has urged anyone with information to call Crime Stoppers on 1-800-577-8477, or to visit www.nypdcrimestoppers.com.

Earlier this year, a man was found guilty of the homophobic murder of a gay New York ice cream seller.

Watch the footage of last weekend’s attack below: