I haven't been to Paignton itself for a few years, but some of the backstreet pubs used to be tolerable, and there is always the 'Spoons. 2 tips - if you have transport, a good and more-peaceful beach is Broadsands well to the south, although sadly publess; and try to fit in the trip to Kingswear by steam train and boat over to Dartmouth, which is a good day out with some great pubs.
PS - Positive vote FOR the zoo!!