Lost bike in fire - getting new one - suggestions???

[sb-gal]

Well I lost my bike in the California wildfires last November (lost the house too but that's another story). The bike literally melted, I was able to find the gears, that's it!

It's time to replace the bike and get riding again. I'm curious what your suggestions would be.

I'm 5' 9" - 155#

I commute about 20 miles round trip to work during the warmer months (yes I know I live in So. Cal and the temp doesn't go below 60 degrees during the day, I'm a wimp). I ride for pleasure. I don't go off road or mountain biking but there has been an occasion that I've had to take my bike over dirt or grass.

I want to start taking longer rides and tackle my first half century this year.

I live in a somewhat hilly area near the beach. My commute to my (old, needs to be re-built) house is quite a climb.

I need a bike that can easily carry panniers so I can get ready at work.

I ended up with pretty bad tennis elbow after I started riding last year.

I loved my bike, it was comfortable, it was cute. It was a starter bike so I think I want to keep the comfort factor and just upgrade.

I had a Fuji Crosstown 2.0 and it had the best seat ever!

Thanks!