Search Results: first date advice

There's this guy I've been friends with for while, we clicked the first time we met and ended up texting a lot and giving each other relationship advice etc. There was always an underlying flirtation (tho maybe that is just how he is) but I didn't think anything would come of it because he commented to the effect that he didn't find me visually attractive (join the club!)

Anyway fast forward and we hang out just the two of us. We talk about relationships and how we are both single, our first crushes, plans for the future, relationships with parents, past relationships, siblings etc etc, all the "this very much feels like a date" topics. We get a food and he comments it's lucky we are just friends or it would be expensive for him. That evening when we text he makes a comment that suggests he knows im interested in him, which I joke around.

So now I'm wondering what this is. Is there potential here or is he just bored and looking for someone to practice dating with?

I like having him as a friend so I am happy either way but still would like clarity.