CULVER CITY. With a dining area that’s on the small side, Beacon makes the most of its limited space with modern, Zen-inspired decor and two streetside patios. The pan-Asian spot keeps busy thanks to upscale fare and friendly prices. Try a small plate of black edamame before sampling dishes like chicken pad thai (which arrives with rice noodles and tofu) and yaki udon, both quite affordable. Should you choose to indulge, a decent by-the-glass wine selection gets raves for the way it enhances the food.