If you are looking at cyclocross, Redline built their brand on this category. I'd also look at Surly for solid, no frills bikes. I agree though with the earlier poster, that as long as you stay with a quality bike brand (Trek, Specialized, Giant, Bianchi, Cannondale, etc) you should be looking at a decent bike.

I think cyclocross bikes make good commuters, but I'd stay away from most mountain bikes, especially full suspension versions. I don't think they make good bikes for transportation in comparison to your other options. I've mused more on this at http://austinbikeblog.org/?p=38