I'd take a look at a Surly Cross Check. Not ridiculously expensive, has a steel frame, and a good component set (as stock). The Long Haul Trucker is nice too. I ride a cross check set up as a road bike (skinny tires) for lots of my rides. I'm no featherweight either - mine wasn't a stock build (if you're interested, I'll list out components for you), but I adore it.

CA