Thanks for the comments. @Surly, thats the problem...I don't really know a whole lot about bikes and what i really would want/need. The Trek 9th District looks pretty awesome to me, but so does the MASI CX UNO and the Jamis Aurora. I'm just not sure if it's worth spending the extra money until I actually know the difference besides looks.
On top of that it's already been hard enough explaining the value of these bikes ($500-$600) to my wife when she sees the $200 ones at Costco.

@Nash. Thanks for all the info. I'm not sure if I like the look of the Cafe Express...my uncle actually sent me to that same bike. So you think the IGH would be better here? What about the Trek Waubesa? Those are on sale at the shop for $640...kind of pushing my budget though since I still would need fenders/helmet/lock.