I don't think the people of ATRL are familiar with the concept of dating. Or maybe it's just the gay community in general.
Anyway, a specific number of dates is hard to say, but when you know them well enough and you're comfortable with him/her!
I think it depends. If you're rly into the person I wouldn't blow it all at once
That being said if u go out a few times and realize it isn't happening (and for some odd reason are still attracted to the perso ) or if you're into a short term fling, then anything goes I guess