I understand your point. But please don’t take it out on the waitress. She doesn’t set policy.
A rude waitress deserves little or no tip. But a good waitress caught in a bad situation deserves consideration. And I wouldn’t be surprised if a waitress in a “modern” restaurant still gets legally paid less than minimum wage.
Anyway, I also understand your point about not returning. I visited a McDonalds about a month ago. All ordering had to be done by kiosk. I could not properly input what I wanted. It was too complicated. So I gave up. Maybe that’s because I’m an old, pre-computers guy. I won’t be returning there.
The tip is based upon the work done AND how well it’s done. Generally a waitress will take your order, bring your food and handle the bill. Since she only took my order and brought my food, she did less work and earned less tip. It’s not my job to pay someone else’s staff when I have to do part of their job.
McDonald’s kiosk is laughable terrible.
The McDonald’s app works well for ordering— much better than kiosks — and offers deals. For example, I’m in MD now and nearest McDonald’s offers a BOGO double-cheeseburger, BOGO breakfast sandwich, 99 cent coffee and more. Customization is easy once you learn how. That’s where I found out I can get no salt or extra salt, and add extra butter to my Egg McMuffin.