This hole-in-a-wall pub has neither the upmarket "look at me look at me" pretensions of its near neighbours on the market square, nor the down-and-out reek and 1970s charm of many typical German drinking establishments, where your only choice is whether you want your mass-market swill in a small or large glass.
Groups of students and middle-aged shoppers mingle and chat here amongst posters and placards dedicated to the various and extensive selection of Belgian brews that the pub serves. The music is contemporary but non-intrusive: this is definitely a space conducive to the lost art of conversation.
(Good news for travellers suffering from Germany's somewhat regressive attitude towards public smoking: as a gastro-pub, Le Templier is thankfully smoke-free as per the convoluted local regulations. So you can enjoy your beverage and your meal without involuntarily ingesting ash.)
The menu is not nearly as extensive as the beer selection, but, following the K.I.S.S. principle, they do what they do well. The moules (oysters) and frites (french fries) combo is a perennial favourite, as are the local french-style pizzas (flammkuchen). I personally recommend the tomato soup, which comes served with fantastic fresh bread from a local bakery.
All in all, Le Tempelier is a cozy spot for a cold winter's evening (or hot summer's day if you're sitting out front) and a welcome alternative for those tiring of German-style beers and/or the schnitzel and wurst school of fine dining. And for those planning to stay in Saarbrücken for a bit longer, it definitely has all the makings of your new local away from home!