I see no major difference between someone putting potato chips on a sandwich or fried onion strings, which is something I like (for flavor and crunch). So no problems for me, even if I don’t personally want potato chips on my sandwiches.
Like @Little_Nemo I might quibble over calling it a condiment, but it’s a quibble.
On the other hand, crushing chips (or breakfast cereal) that aren’t packed with additives and mixing them in with my flour dredge for fried food? Hell yes.
I used to do this as a kid, and I beleive this was mentioned before. Now as an adult I have had sandwiches with french fries on them and been fairly happy with the combo, considering it the adult version of my childhood treat. Neither do I consider a condiment, since to me condiments are liquid or semi-liquiid.
Now I long for a fried bologna sandwich with potato chips and mayo. If only I could allow myself.
Whereas i am in favor of the former. Lightly crushed potato chips are a nice contrast to tuna salad, for instance. While French fries are too much like bread for me to want them in the same meal. (And yes, i know that a burger and fries is a common meal, but if it’s a good burger, i may eat it without the bun.)
I have some good salt and vinegar chips, but in reality, they are too vinegary and astringent. They leave you raw, alone. But ithink they might be crisps or croutons for some culinary application… very copious salt and sour acetic powders. I think they might make a topping for a ceviche. Any suggestions?