Opinions on Surly

Hi long time lurker, first time poster.

I'm looking to get into a new do-it-all bike after transitioning from a Cinelli Zydeco, which unfortunately doesn't have much range. Right now my priorities are:

• steel
• tire clearance for up to 700 x 50mm/2.2" or 27.5"+
• fairly nimble and can carry speed easily (~ 15-20mph) on pavement for commuting
• can be taken out for bikepacking trips
• can handle SOME single track without too many issues (I don't mind being a bit underbiked for this aspect)

After perusing through my local bike shop's online store, a couple of Surlys, like the Bridge Club and Ogre, have caught my eye. I've been watching reviews about both and so far, I feel like I need to really test ride either of them to get a feel for what I prefer since they're claimed to both carry speed fine on pavement and can be do-it-all bikes.

Then I've visited this sub and searched for any opinions about them here, and I've found that most people prefer other bikes instead, most especially the Jones SWB/LWB or even the Stooge Scrambler.

My question then is: why? Are Surlys under-specced or overpriced in many people's opinions? Am I fine with trying out a Surly still? Or what other bikes should I be looking at?

Thanks for any advice!