Along with the unparalleled pleasures of good company and conversation, dining out with friends allows me to try places that I might otherwise overlook. Such is the case with Al Dar in Bala Cynwyd, Pa. Had it not been for my friend Scott, who adores this bustling, Lebanese-influenced bistro, I never would have experienced a taste of the Middle East on Philadelphia’s Main Line. Seated in the main dining room amidst dimly lit, wrought-iron chandeliers, marble-topped tables, rich, gold drapes and padded, leather banquettes, I feel as though I have slipped away to Morocco. The din of the happy diners furthers this feeling of hanging out in the heart of Marrakech instead of on the edge of Philly. At Al Dar we invariably start the night with a traditional mezze of hummus and pita and, in my case, a regional beer such as Flying Fish or Brooklyn Lager. The main course soon follows. For Scott, it will be one of two favorite entrees — a falafel salad or chicken kebab. A regular, he sticks with what he loves. As a relative newcomer to Al Dar, I feel compelled to sample as many dishes as possible. One week I might opt …