Researching on your own always helps. Then you are armed with knowledge that you can take with you while shopping. When I was shopping for a touring bike, my bike shop tried to re-direct me too. Saying "Steel is sluggish, you'll hate it," and so on. They tried to sell me on a Specialized Ruby Expert, which was very nice - but not what I wanted.
Finally I just told them to order the 520 and quit showing me other bikes. Before I even went in to my LBS - I did my own measurements to make sure I'd fit. (inseam, top-tube, etc.) It is sad but sometimes, bike shops make the mistake of forcing their preference on you - or like my bike shop - work on commision - based on if they sell a model they have "in-stock" (they don't make a commision on one they have to order.) So, arm yourself with as much knowledge as possible. Being prepared is the best advice I have to give.
"Things look different from the seat of a bike carrying a sleeping bag with a cold beer tucked inside." ~Jim Malusa
2009 Trek 520-Brooks B-17 Special in Antique Brown
2010 Surly Long Haul Trucker-Brooks B-17 Standard in Black
1983 Fuji Espree Single Speed-Brooks B17 British Racing Green