What's a good bike for daily use in New Orleans? A flat city with lots of potholes and bad roads Something under $500 that is relatively unbranded.
Better yet, look at a 29'er. Like this one.from Kona, Single speed, rigid, fat tire MTB. Run fat tire slicks, and it's a great commuter. The lack of shifting works well on flat ground, with the right gear choice (very personal decision), and the fat large tires roll well and comfortably. MTB durability means rough roads might as well not exist.

There are many bikes like this, and while i like the Unit 29'er linkd, I'm recommending the idea, not the particular bike.

As far as branding, that can be fixed with judicious use of tape, spray paint, and stickers.