A MAN brandishing two large kitchen knives casually walked into a bar and robbed a woman attendant within 30 seconds in Cairns early yesterday.

The Canadian woman was working her last shift at the bar at the Rainbow Inn on Sheridan St, when the knife-wielding man and an accomplice entered just after 2am.

The men, who covered their faces with clothing, threatened the woman before opening a bag and demanding cash and alcohol.

Police said about $200 was stolen along with seven bottles of spirits.

The thieves were believed to have headed in a direction towards McLeod St.

Rainbow Inn manager Claudette Deeb was horrified by the incident and said it was the first time the resort had been held up in 30 years.

Ms Deeb had planned to arrive at the bar at 3am and spoke to the attendant after the incident.

"She was a bit shaken up but she is fine now," she said.

Ms Deeb said the entire property had video surveillance and a caretaker lived on site.

Cairns CIB Det Sgt Jason Chetham said initial reports suggested the men left in a light-coloured vehicle, in a similar shape to a Toyota Corona or Cressida.

One of the men was described as in his late teens-early 20s, slim build and wearing a white hooded top. The other was described as being older, medium build, about 178cm tall, with light brown hair and dark clothing.

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