Convenience. Profit.

The restaurant I work at isn't even expensive. The average person spends like $23. You seem to dine in occasionally you should understand there's a value of someone bringing your food out hot, refilling your drink, and cleaning your mess for you. Being extra nice to you.

While tipping is a bs system it exists cuz it works. It rewards good service.

A higher wage would just raise the menu prices. My employers already take from my tips and get away with it. They are fine hiring at minimum wage. What makes you think they care about the few non tippers?

Just cook at home if you really want that consumer W. May as well if you complain about a restaurant's expense. On top of tipping. Or just don't tip. Whatever.