One of the best "starter" bikes is an entry level mountain bike from a "top" company, such as Trek, Giant, or Specialized. Trek has three or four mountain bikes with a "street" price under $350. A good mountain bike in the $300 to $350 range can handle punishment that would make a $2,000 road bike beg for mercy.
And, you can get a good choice of sizes. Trek makes its entry level mountain bikes with a choice of five or six sizes. By adjusting the seatpost and stem, a good shop can "dial in" a very precise fit for you.